Jaydeep Apte, a sculptor involved in the installation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s statue at Rajkot fort, has been remanded in police custody. Structural consultant Chetan Patil’s custody is extended till September 10. Apte surrendered citing political frustration. Authorities are investigating contract details and construction timelines. CM Eknath Shinde criticized politicization of the incident.

Sources have said that the “hidden agenda” of Kukis is dangerous with their possible alliance with world bodies to carve out a separate state.

The purse, seemingly insignificant, became the linchpin of the investigation. Its discovery and subsequent forensic analysis revealed crucial details that turned the tide in the case.