Army installs Shivaji statue on Pangong Lake bank; Ladakh councillor, others question its relevance

Sub: History

Sec: Personality

Context:

A statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was recently installed by the Indian Army on the banks of Pangong Tso in eastern Ladakh. This installation has sparked controversy due to its perceived irrelevance to the local environment and history.

About the controversy:

Critics argue that the statue’s placement is unrelated to the local history and culture, as Shivaji’s legacy is not connected to Ladakh.
Some suggest that Zorawar Singh, a figure with historical ties to the region, would have been a more appropriate choice.
Other local historical figures like Khree Sultan Cho, Ali Sher Khan Anchen and Seenge Namgyal have also been recommended.

About Pangong Tso:

Pangong Tso is a high-altitude endorheic lake located in the Himalayan region, spanning across the India-China border.
Pangong Tso sits at an altitude of about 4,350 meters above sea level.
Nearly two-thirds of the lake is controlled by China, with just about 45 km under Indian control. The LAC, running north-south, cuts the western part of the lake.
The lake’s water, while crystal clear, is brackish, making it undrinkable. It is the world’s highest saltwater lake.
It is also known to change colours, appearing blue, green, and red at different times.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj:

Shivaji was born in 1630, in Shivneri Fort near Pune, Maharashtra, to Shahaji Bhosale (a Maratha general) and Jijabai.
Shivaji established the Maratha Empire in the 17th century and focused on self-rule (Swarajya) and resistance to Mughal rule.
Renowned for his use of guerrilla warfare and building a strong navy to defend the coastline.
Constructed or captured over 300 forts, including Raigad and Sindhudurg.
Developed an efficient revenue system and justice system and promoted secularism, employing people of all religions in his administration.

Zorawar Singh:

Zorawar Singh Kahluria was a Dogra military general in the 19th century, often regarded as one of the greatest figures in the history of Ladakh and the Jammu & Kashmir region.
Zorawar Singh is remembered as a symbol of bravery and military prowess as he successfully annexed Ladakh to the Jammu and Kashmir Kingdom.