Unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of the 143rd anniversary of the independence movement hero Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel death’s. The statue stands a towering 600 feet tall, and has garnered as much criticism as admiration.
Many in the tribal population allege that they have been displaced from their land due to the project and the government is yet to pay them the compensation. Headmen of nearly 22 villages near the Sardar Sarovar Dam where it is situated wrote an open letter to PM Modi criticizing the cost and environmental destruction caused by the construction.
"We villagers want to tell you with extreme grief that we will not welcome you on October 31. Even if you come here like an unwanted guest, you are not welcome here," reads the letter according to the local media.
The affected farmers have threatened to drown themselves in the river if their appeals are not heard.
The social media is also abuzz with criticism as well as appreciation. Social activists are criticizing Modi of squandering public money.