Authorities have made the first arrest in connection with the collapse of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district. The incident occurred on August 26, when the statue, located in the district’s Kankavli area, fell during maintenance work.
The individual arrested has been identified as a contractor involved in the maintenance and renovation of the statue. Local police have stated that the contractor was responsible for overseeing the work on the statue, which was part of a larger project aimed at preserving historical monuments in the region.
The statue’s collapse sparked widespread outrage, with local residents and Shivaji Maharaj’s followers expressing deep concern over the incident. Many have questioned the quality of the maintenance work and demanded accountability from those responsible.
In response to public outcry, the police launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse and to identify any potential negligence. The arrested contractor is currently being questioned, and authorities have indicated that further arrests may be made as the investigation progresses.
The district administration has assured the public that the statue will be restored as soon as possible, and measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. Additionally, the state government has emphasized its commitment to preserving the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj and ensuring the protection of all monuments dedicated to his memory.
The collapse of the statue has reignited discussions about the need for rigorous standards in the maintenance of historical sites across Maharashtra, particularly those of significant cultural and historical importance.
