The Belagavi City Corporation [BCC] approved the inauguration of the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj statue in a council meeting, stating that all the necessary preparations were completed. On Saturday, MLA Abhay Patil announced that elders from Angol, Belagavi and representatives of 35 youth organizations will meet the Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan and Police Commissioner Mohammad Roshan and Lada Martin to demand approval of the inauguration for the event.
Belagavi is witnessing growing tension over the inauguration of the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj statue at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Circle at 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 5,2025.
However, objections from a minority group have stirred controversy. 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.
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.”
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.
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. Activists have warned of a statewide “Belagavi Chalo” movement if permission is denied.
“In a tweet, MLA Abhay Patil shared a video inviting people to join at 4:00 PM for the grand Shobha Yatra at Angol Naka, marking the unveiling of the statue of the great warrior, Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj ji.”
On 5th January [TODAY], BJP activists were seen putting up flags on poles near the statue site, preparing for the planne devent. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to avoid any untoward incidents during the scheduled program.
This event is expected to witness significant participation from the public and prominet leaders.
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