I am not against Shivaji Maharaj: Rajev Paul

At a time when most TV actors are maintaining a healthy distance from political issues, thoughts of Rajev Paul come across as a whiff of fresh air. This talented TV actor, who is now looking for meaty projects post Bigg Boss season 6, is soon to file a Right to Information (RTI) application demanding information from both the state government of Maharashtra and the Central government regarding the source of funding for the proposed statue of Shivaji Maharaj that is to be erected in the Arabian Sea. “When this plan was first mooted way back in 2009, the project was to cost some crores, now I am sure the cost must have escalated (remember the Worli sea link tab?). Who will foot this bill? There are still villages in India which have not yet been electrified. Poor debt-ridden farmers across Maharashtra are committing suicide in thousands. Last year, there was severe drought and this year we are faced with the catastrophe in Uttaranchal. At a time when we have the government asking people to donate money generously for the relief work in Uttaranchal, can we afford such largesse? I further wish to know if there is a separate fund affixed for building the statue. If not, have funds been diverted from more pressing issues. As a tax payer, I have every right to know how much money is to be used for the erection of the statue,” observes Rajev. “When the previous government in Uttar Pradesh made huge statutes of their leaders, we mocked at them. Now, one of the most developed states of the country is doing the same?” he remarks. “The proposers of this ill-thought out project say that they want to build a statue which will be higher than the Statue of Liberty that is off the New York coast. To this, I say if you want to compete with the US, why you don’t raise the value of the rupee which is now on a sliding spree,” he maintains. Rajev also wants to know if the government has a plan in place to protect this proposed monument. “Everyone knows that the last time terrorists invaded our great city, it was from the sea. And since this statue will be a kilometer deep into the sea, who will guard it,” he asks. At this point, the actor scoffs at his critics who are questioning his motives. “Somebody has to be step up the plate. We like martyrs but they should be our neighbours. We just can’t sit and expect someone else to do the heavy lifting. ” The actor further states that he is in for a long haul in this issue. “I wish to file a PIL (Public Interest Litigation) on this subject, but was told by my legal team that we need to have full information before we approach the Courts. Hence, the need for the RTI application! I would be happy if others join me. If someone else has already moved on this issue, I will join him. This is how I want to do my bit towards the society. I am not here to claim any authorship,” he avers. Finally Rajeev observes, “I am not against Shivaji Maharaj. I just want to know who is paying for his statue and how. Once that is clear, I will have no issues if they erect one in every street corner.” Very noble thoughts, Rajev. Keep it up!!!