Prime Minister Narendra Modi today issued an apology to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and those affected by the collapse of the iconic statue at Rajkot Fort. Speaking in Palghar, Maharashtra, he stated, “Upon my arrival here, my first action was to apologize to Shivaji for the statue’s collapse. I also extend my apologies to those who were hurt by this incident.”

He added, “To those who revere Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a deity and feel deeply wounded, I bow my head and apologize. Our values are such that nothing surpasses our reverence for our deities.”

The statue, unveiled by PM Modi during the Navy Day celebrations last December, was intended to honor the Maratha Navy’s legacy and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s contributions to maritime defense and security, linking his historical impact with the modern Indian Navy.

The Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance has accused the ruling government of corruption related to the statue’s construction and is calling for the resignation of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

In response to the incident, a joint technical committee, including representatives from the Indian Navy, the Maharashtra Government, and various experts, will be established to investigate the damage.