Mumbai: A fresh political storm has erupted after the statue of revered social reformer Mahatma Jyotirao Phule was allegedly vandalised in Telangana’s Sangareddy district, triggering sharp reactions across party lines. The incident, reported on February 6, has been described by leaders as not just an act of damage to a statue, but a direct assault on the values of social justice and equality.
Maharashtra’s senior OBC leader and State Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal has formally approached Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding strict and exemplary action against those behind the incident. In a strongly worded letter, Bhujbal stressed that Mahatma Phule represents the foundation of social reform, empowerment of the marginalised, and the fight against caste-based discrimination.
Bhujbal warned that any attempt to insult or undermine Mahatma Phule’s legacy risks disturbing social harmony and weakening the principles of equality enshrined in the Constitution. He urged the Union government to intervene without delay, stating that such incidents should not be treated as routine law-and-order issues but as serious attacks on the nation’s reformist heritage.
The controversy has also drawn condemnation from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve, who called the vandalism “deeply shameful” and unacceptable in a democratic country. Danve asserted that responsibility lies with whichever government is currently in power to ensure a transparent investigation and strict punishment for the guilty.
He further pointed out that this was not an isolated issue and demanded that authorities revisit earlier cases where Mahatma Phule was allegedly disrespected. According to Danve, repeated silence or inaction only emboldens such acts and sends the wrong message to society.
