A major controversy erupted on Wednesday morning at Shivaji Park in Mumbai when an unknown individual defaced the statue of Meenatai Thackeray, wife of Balasaheb Thackeray and mother of Uddhav Thackeray, by throwing red ink on it. The incident caused outrage among Shiv Sainiks.
Mumbai: An unknown person poured red ink on the statue of Meenatai Thackeray, wife of Balasaheb Thackeray and mother of Uddhav Thackeray, at Shivaji Park on Wednesday morning, causing a stir in the area. Passersby witnessed the incident and immediately informed Shiv Sena (UBT) workers. The workers reached the spot, cleaned the statue, and also informed the police about the incident. This act has caused both concern and anger in political and social circles.
Incident of Ink Being Thrown on the Statue
The incident of ink being thrown on the statue occurred around 6:00 AM on Wednesday morning. Upon receiving information about the incident, the police immediately reached the spot and began an investigation. The police started reviewing the CCTV footage installed around the statue, and eight teams were formed to identify the culprit. A forensic team was also called to collect ink samples and examine any digital and physical evidence.
The police stated that this is a serious matter and all possible efforts are being made to apprehend the culprits as soon as possible. They also appealed to the public to maintain peace and not believe in rumors.
Shiv Sena Factions Condemn the Act as an Insult to Sentiments
Following this incident, both Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Shinde faction responded bly. Yogesh Kadam, a leader from the Shinde faction and Maharashtra's Minister for Home and Revenue, stated that Meenatai Thackeray is a symbol of motherhood for every Shiv Sainik, and pouring color on her statue is an insult to the sentiments of the entire party and its workers.
Meanwhile, Mahesh Sawant, a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, said that every worker considers Meenatai Thackeray their guide and inspiration. He alleged that the incident occurred at a time when UBT workers were protesting against the India-Pakistan match, and it was an attempt to oppose their protest by desecrating the statue.
Political Significance of Meenatai Thackeray's Statue
The statue of Meenatai Thackeray was built and installed by senior Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam on the orders of Bal Thackeray. This statue holds emotional and historical significance for Shiv Sena workers and supporters. After the incident, UBT leader Anil Desai criticized the state government, stating that this incident highlights a lapse in the administration's security.
This matter has become a topic of discussion among political factions and is also being viewed in the context of upcoming elections and local political tensions.
Public and Shiv Sainiks Demand Increased Security
Local residents expressed anger after the ink was thrown on the statue and demanded the arrest of the culprits. Shivaji Park administration deployed additional security forces in the area and appealed to the public to maintain peace.
Local residents and Shiv Sainiks urged the administration to increase surveillance at such sensitive locations in the future, install warning boards, and strictly enforce security measures to prevent any further unpleasant incidents.
