Will Khargone Council Install a New Metal Statue of Tribal Icon Tantya Mama Amid Controversy?
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Synopsis
In a move to rectify past mistakes, the Khargone Municipal Council will install a new metal statue of the revered tribal leader Tantya Mama Bhil, following controversy over a previous substandard installation. This decision reflects a commitment to honoring the legacy of a freedom fighter and addressing tribal grievances.
Key Takeaways
- The Khargone Municipal Council will erect a new metal statue of Tantya Mama.
- The decision comes after public discontent over a substandard previous installation.
- Administrative actions have been taken against responsible officials.
- Tantya Mama is a celebrated tribal revolutionary figure.
- This initiative aims to honor tribal sentiments and rectify past errors.
Bhopal/Khargone, Jan 24 (NationPress) In light of significant public outcry, the Khargone Municipal Council in Madhya Pradesh has decided to erect a new metal statue dedicated to the esteemed tribal revolutionary figure Tantya Mama Bhil, affectionately referred to as Krantisurya Tantya Mama, with utmost respect and dignity.
This decision follows a major scandal surrounding the prior installation of a subpar fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) statue at the Tantya Mama Bhil Tiraha (Bistan Naka Chowk), which led to accusations of corruption and offended tribal sentiments.
The uproar initiated after the original statue, approved under a Rs 9.90 lakh contract for a bronze, metal, or stone statue, turned out to be a low-cost FRP version priced at merely Rs 75,000 - 1 lakh.
Unveiled in late 2025, the inferior installation faced harsh criticism due to allegations of financial misappropriation and breach of tender guidelines. In response, the Urban Administration and Development Department swiftly suspended Assistant Engineer Manish Mahajan and Sub-Engineer Jitendra Medha for negligence, dereliction of duty, and violation of service rules.
Through a series of posts on X, the urban development department announced, “The President-in-Council adopted a resolution on January 13, 2026, endorsing the creation of a new metal statue. An online e-tender was released on January 19, 2026, with bids closing on February 2 and opening on February 4. The chosen contractor must finalize the installation within 45 days.”
Municipal President Chhaya Joshi (BJP) has reportedly blacklisted the contractor and issued formal notices to the officials involved. This episode highlights administrative failures and political sensitivities regarding the commemoration of tribal icons, with the new statue viewed as a corrective measure and a tribute to a freedom fighter who opposed colonial tyranny.
Tantya Bhil (c. 1842–1889), fondly known as Tantya Mama, was a notable Bhil tribal leader from the Nimar region, who vigorously opposed British colonial rule from 1878 to 1889. Often celebrated as “India's Robin Hood,” he orchestrated guerrilla assaults against exploitative British regulations and local zamindars, redistributing wealth to the impoverished before his capture and execution in 1889.
Revered within tribal circles as a beacon of resistance and justice, his legacy remains a source of inspiration.
Point of View
I believe that this decision by the Khargone Municipal Council is a necessary step towards rectifying past administrative errors. It highlights the importance of honoring our heroes and addressing the sentiments of tribal communities, reflecting our commitment to justice and respect for all cultures in India.
NationPress
24/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the installation of a new statue?
The installation was prompted by public outrage over a previous low-quality statue that was considered disrespectful to the legacy of Tantya Mama.
What was wrong with the original statue?
The original statue was a cheap fibre-reinforced polymer version, which was a significant deviation from the approved bronze or metal statue.
Who was Tantya Mama?
Tantya Mama, also known as Tantya Bhil, was a prominent tribal leader who fought against British colonial rule and is celebrated as a symbol of resistance.
What actions were taken against the officials involved?
The Urban Administration and Development Department suspended the Assistant Engineer and Sub-Engineer for negligence and breach of service rules.
When will the new statue be installed?
The new statue's installation is expected to be completed within 45 days after the tender process concludes.
