Mass protest erupts in western India over Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue incident
by Aditi VermaA massive demonstration organized by the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in western India’s Maharashtra is drawing national attention, triggered by the recent fall of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Sindhudurg. The protest, which saw Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad call for the resignation of Maharashtra’s government, highlights growing tensions over the incident.
The incident took place in Mumbai on September 1.
Visuals showed preparing for the “Chappal Maro Andolan,” some individuals were seen on the road carrying large-sized slippers. Their enthusiasm for the protest was evident as they brandished the oversized footwear, ready to use it as a symbol of their demonstration. The scene was marked by the sight of these participants energetically showcasing their props, reflecting the intensity and fervor of the protest.
Leaders from the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) led a significant march from Hutatma Chowk to the Gateway of India in Mumbai, protesting the incident involving the statue of 17th-century Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The statue, installed at Rajkot Fort in Malvan Tehsil of Sindhudurg district, collapsed on August 26, sparking widespread outrage.
Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad criticized the state government, demanding immediate resignation, while former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray was seen publicly castigating the current administration by throwing slippers and shoes at posters of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar.
The incident has intensified political tensions, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Shinde both issuing apologies, which only fueled further protests. The Maharashtra government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter, but the ‘India’ alliance has ramped up its campaign against the government, prompting additional protests and heightened security in Mumbai.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has countered the demonstrations with its series of protests, reflecting the deepening political divide in the state.