State postpones work on Shivaji memorial

Even though the hurdles in acquiring land for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s memorial appear to have been sorted out, the state government on Monday postponed beginning the work for the Chhatrapati Shivaji memorial in Arabian Sea.

This move has been criticised by the Congress and the NCP, which alleged that the government is not serious about the matter and it has only been playing politics in the name of the Marathi ruler.

“The ceremony to mark the beginning of work for the Shivaji memorial has been planned keeping in mind his stature. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had even assured us of his presence on May 22,” said MLC Vinayak Mete, chairman of Shiv Smarak Samiti on Monday.

Mr Mete also said that a grand celebration has been planned at the Wankhede stadium after the foundation ceremony is held. Invitation cards for the event have already been sent out, he said. “We are planning a grand celebration but since with the current drought, it would not be appropriate. Hence, we have decided to postpone the event to September end. The exact date will be finalised once the PM gives his dates,” Mr Mete said.

“The present drought condition in the state is only getting severe by the day. In such conditions, it would not be proper for us to hold grand celebrations in the name of Shivaji Maharaj. Even he would not have liked us to do so. Thus, keeping in mind the severe drought, we have decided to postpone it to September end. The exact date will be finalised once the PM gives his dates,” Mr Mete added.

Reacting to the postponement, Congress spokesperson Al-Nasser Zakaria said that the government is only playing delaying tactics as it is not ready with a definite plan for the memorial.

Also commenting on the matter, NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said, “This government had used slogans in the name of Shivaji Maharaj while campaigning for the elections. They could have conducted a small programme and at least commenced work on the memorial.”

Meanwhile, the RPI (A) apparently were assured by Union textile minister Santosh Gangwan about being handed over the Indu mill land to construct the memorial of Dr Ambedkar.

“We recently had a meeting with Mr Gangwar and he has assured us that the Centre wants an amicable solution for Dr Ambedkar’s memorial,” RPI (A) party leader Avinash Mahatekar said, adding that a solution regarding transfer of land too would be reached soon.