Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has strongly condemned the recent Shivaji statue collapse incident, calling it a deeply saddening event. Shinde emphasized that Shivaji Maharaj represents more than just a political issue; he is a symbol of identity and faith for the people of Maharashtra. He criticized the opposition for allegedly politicizing the incident, stating that such actions are regrettable. Shinde also referred to the destruction of a Shivaji Maharaj statue in Karnataka, expressing anger and suggesting that those responsible should face severe consequences. He accused the MVA (Maha Vikas Aghadi) of staging protests to exploit the situation politically, asserting that the people of Maharashtra are discerning and will express their dissatisfaction at the polls, potentially dealing a strong electoral rebuke to the opposition.