A controversy has erupted following the recent collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s statue at Rajkot Fort in Sindhudurga, leading to widespread anger among Maratha enthusiasts and fierce criticism from the opposition. Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut has ignited a political firestorm with a series of provocative claims regarding the incident.
In a recent media interaction, Raut made shocking allegations that the statue was not merely broken but deliberately vandalized. “It was you who broke the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. You have no right to take the name of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,” Raut declared, pointing fingers at the BJP and its associates.
Raut’s statements extended to a broader critique of Maharashtra’s political landscape, singling out Devendra Fadnavis, the BJP leader, for his historical and political actions. “Devendra Fadnavis is the successor of the last Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath, who played a role in dismantling the Maratha Empire and first hoisted the British Union Jack on Pune’s Shaniwar Wada,” Raut said, accusing Fadnavis of historical distortion and disrespect towards Maratha legacy.
The Shiv Sena MP further expressed outrage over the alleged mishandling of funds meant for the statue’s erection and criticized the BJP’s response to the incident. “Those who embezzled crores in the name of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are still at large. You cannot arrest them because they are your Peshwa’s loyalists,” Raut charged. He accused BJP supporters of obstructing Shiv Sainiks’ access to Malvan Fort, where the statue stood, labeling them as “BJP goons.”
Raut’s comments also touched on broader issues concerning Maharashtra’s political and historical narratives. He questioned the BJP’s commitment to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, criticizing the party’s stance on regional issues like the Belgaum-Karwar border dispute and historical events. “If you are a true devotee of Chhatrapati Shivaji, explain your stand on the Belgaum-Karwar border issue. Maharaja’s kingdom was the Mavla kingdom of Marathi people, and you are about to end it,” Raut said. He also disputed historical interpretations about Shivaji Maharaj’s actions, asserting that the Maratha king’s raids on Surat were strategic for national security.
This dramatic exchange underscores a deepening political rift and ongoing debates over Maharashtra’s historical legacy and current governance. As the fallout continues, the focus remains on the integrity of historical memorials and the political motives behind their management.