Row over Shivaji Maharaj, Phule statues triggers tension in Tellapur

Tension prevailed in Tellapur municipality after rival groups installed Shivaji Maharaj and Jyothirao Phule statues side by side. An alleged attempt to vandalise the Phule statue was foiled by police. Cases were registered following complaints from both sides

Sangareddy: A row over the installation of Shivaji Maharaj and Jyothirao Phule statues side by side created tension among locals in Tellapur municipality on February 6. The incident later drew nationwide attention after a video went viral on social media, with many questioning the attempted vandalism of the Phule statue.

According to locals, a group recently installed a statue of Chhatrapathi Shivaji in the Tellapur division of the GHMC, which was opposed by another group. The Kollur police intervened and ensured that the installation was completed smoothly. A few days later, the group that had opposed the Shivaji statue installed a statue of Jyothirao Phule, leading to a sharp rift between the two groups. Subsequently, one group allegedly attempted to vandalise the Phule statue.

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However, the police thwarted the attempt and ensured that the statue remained intact. Following complaints from both sides, the Kollur police registered cases against members of both groups. The incident triggered a wider debate on social media, with users expressing strong views over the developments.