Maha Vikas Aghadi Leaders Join “Hit With Slippers” Protest Over Shivaji Maharaj Statue Collapse in Mumbai

Top leaders of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) — Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray, and Nana Patole — have joined the large-scale “Jode Maro” protest in Mumbai, addressing the recent collapse of the 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji in Malvan, Sindhudurg. The Eknath Shinde government has deployed extensive security for the protest march, which will proceed from Hutatma Chowk in Fort to the Gateway of India.

A substantial number of police personnel are stationed at the Gateway of India, which has been closed to tourists due to security concerns.

The ruling BJP has criticized the protest, questioning its purpose and announcing a counter-march to challenge the Opposition’s demonstration.

The Opposition’s “Jode Maro” protest — translating to “hit with footwear” — is a rallying call for people to demonstrate their devotion to Shivaji Maharaj. The Shiv Sena (UBT) has urged participation to honor Shivaji’s legacy and “rekindle Maharashtra’s pride.” Meanwhile, the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP has condemned the alleged corruption and labeled those responsible as “Shivdrohis” (betrayers of Shivaji). The Congress state unit has supported the march as a means to address perceived mishandling and corruption related to the statue project.

The statue, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi just eight months ago, has become a focal point of political controversy. Managed by the Navy in collaboration with the state government, the project has seen the arrest of its structural consultant and contractor on charges including culpable homicide and endangerment.

Amidst the political uproar, Prime Minister Modi has issued a public apology for the statue’s collapse. “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is revered as a deity, I bow before him and offer my apologies to both him and the people affected,” Modi stated.