Maharashtra Government Deploys Heavy Security for Mumbai Protest Over Shivaji Statue Collapse; BJP Plans Counter-March

The Maharashtra government, led by Eknath Shinde, has ramped up security measures in Mumbai in anticipation of a major protest organized by the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) over the collapse of the 35-foot Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Sindhudurg’s Malvan. The Gateway of India has been closed to tourists, and a large number of police personnel have been deployed to maintain order.

The BJP has criticized the protest’s relevance and has planned a counter-march of its own. The Opposition rally will feature prominent figures from the INDIA bloc, including Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, and state Congress president Nana Patole. They will march from Hutatma Chowk to the Gateway of India, branding their protest as a “jode maro” or “hit with footwear” demonstration. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress have called for the protest to honor Shivaji and condemn perceived corruption and disrespect toward him.

The statue, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi just eight months ago, collapsed under unclear circumstances, sparking significant political controversy. The Navy, which handled the project in collaboration with the state government, has come under scrutiny. The structural consultant and contractor for the statue have been arrested and charged with serious offenses related to the collapse.

In response to the political fallout, Prime Minister Modi has publicly apologized, expressing his reverence for Shivaji Maharaj and regret over the incident.

The BJP has dismissed the Opposition’s protest as politically motivated, accusing them of using the issue to gain electoral advantage. BJP spokesperson Keshav Upadhye questioned the sincerity of the Opposition’s protest, comparing it to previous political controversies and suggesting that the BJP’s youth wing will counter-protest near Shivaji statues across Maharashtra. Additionally, the BJP plans a separate protest in Dadar led by city party chief Ashish Shelar to address the situation.