Belagavi is witnessing growing tension over the inauguration of the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj statue at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Circle, Angol Belagavi. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan stated late in the evening that the District Administration would decide the unveiling date for the statue. However, BJP leaders, led by MLA Abhay Patil, have insisted on conducting the ceremony today, January 5.
The situation has sparked criticism, with Sri Ram Sena Hindustan founder president Ramakant Konduskar accusing the BJP of rushing the event. Konduskar stated, “The podium and surrounding castle work are incomplete. The BJP is trying to turn this into a party event instead of a government program.” He demanded a one-month postponement to ensure all preparations were finalized.
In contrast, Mayor Savita Kamble and Deputy Mayor Anand Chauhan of the BJP inspected the site and claimed that the statue and associated works were ready. Kamble assured that all stakeholders would be consulted before the inauguration.
The Statue was planned in 2018 –
On Saturday, BJP workers, led by MLA Abhay Patil, met Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan, seeking clarity about the event’s legality. Sources suggest the DC cited concerns about compliance with Supreme Court and Karnataka High Court rules regarding public statue installations.
MLA Abhay Patil dismissed the objections, asserting, “The event does not violate any rules as the statue is within the premises of a community hall, not on the road.”
Meanwhile, Konduskar has threatened to oppose the inauguration if it proceeds today, warning of protests if the BJP-led Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) disregards their concerns.
The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm, with the possibility of a faceoff looming over the event.
Read MLA Abhay Patil’s statement on X here.