On February 19 , the birth anniversary celebration of Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji took an unexpected turn in Goa's Sao Jose d'Ariel village, leading to a clash between Shivaji supporters and local villagers.
The incident occurred during the unveiling of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on private land, sparking controversy over permissions and ownership.
In Maharashtra, where the Maratha king's influence is significant, political parties organized grand processions to commemorate Chhatrapati Shivaji's birth anniversary.
In contrast, Goa, which has a largely Konkani population and fewer Marathas, had conflicts rise after a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji was built on a private land in Sao Jose d'Ariel village.
Around 150 locals gathered at the site, questioning the legality of the statue's installation on private land. Villagers claimed the panchayat had not granted permission for the statue, and arguments ensued between the supporters and protestors.
Protestors alleged that the land belonged to the Scheduled Tribe (ST) community and that the idol holders did not obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the landowner, Sartaj.
The people stated they requested permission from the panchayat, but it was denied. Villagers claimed that the statue was created by people from outside the village, which fueled local resentment.
As tensions arose, the police were called in to help manage the situation. Subhash Phal Desai, the State Social Justice Minister, appeared to unveil the statue and announced that it had been constructed on private land with proper permission. he stated that he had visited the property owner. However, the lack of a NOC increased public opposition.
During the incident, angry protestors threw a stone at Minister Subhash Phal Desai, wounding him. Despite the event, the minister proceeded with the statue unveiling,further worsening the issue.
In response to the escalating conflict, the police used lathicharge to disperse the crowd. The situation remains tense as Deputy Superintendent of Police Santosh Desai stated they are investigating the origins of the Chhatrapati Shivaji statue and its placement.