Goa, April 15 -- Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar has strongly opposed the proposed demolition of the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, calling on authorities to respect public sentiment and reconsider the move.

Amonkar appealed to the Mormugao Port Authority to halt any immediate action and instead pursue a peaceful and respectful resolution. He stressed that for millions of people, Shivaji Maharaj symbolises pride, courage, and cultural identity.

Warning against potential backlash, the MLA said that removing the statue could deeply hurt public emotions. He urged stakeholders to engage in dialogue and arrive at a consensus before taking any decision.

The last-minute intervention underscores the cultural and emotional significance att...