Sanjay Raut Critiques Government's Stance on Colonialism After Statue Unveiling
In a recent event at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut criticized the Indian government's stance on colonialism following the unveiling of a statue of C. Rajagopalachari. He questioned the government's relations with the United States and the implications of the India-US trade agreement. Additionally, Matt Ridley, a descendant of Edwin Lutyens, expressed disappointment over the removal of Lutyens' statue. This article delves into the political implications of these statements and the significance of the new statue in the context of India's cultural heritage.
| Feb 24, 2026, 13:33 IST
Sanjay Raut Questions Government's Anti-Colonial Stance
Following the unveiling of a statue of C. Rajagopalachari at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut launched a sharp critique against the central government, questioning its position on colonialism. Raut targeted India's foreign policy, asking why the government maintains relations with the United States and President Donald Trump if it opposes colonialism. He challenged the India-US trade agreement, criticized the purchase of Rafale jets from France, and highlighted the contributions of various figures, including Lutyens, to the construction of New Delhi.
Comments on Colonialism and Trade Agreements
Raut stated, 'If you speak against colonialism, why have you become a slave to Trump? If you detest colonialism so much, you should cancel the India-US trade agreement... Why did you purchase Rafale from France?... Many individuals, including Lutyens, contributed to the construction of New Delhi.' These remarks followed the unveiling of the statue of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, India's first and only Indian Governor-General, by President Droupadi Murmu on Monday.
Matt Ridley Expresses Disappointment Over Lutyens' Statue Removal
On Monday, Matt Ridley, a descendant of Edwin Lutyens, expressed sadness over the removal of Lutyens' statue from the Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the statue of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari has now been placed. Ridley posted on X, stating that he was disheartened to learn that the statue of his great-grandfather was being removed from the presidential building he designed. He recalled being surprised last year when Lutyens' name was removed from the foundation stone.
Significance of the New Statue
The statue of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, located near the Grand Open Staircase by the Ashok Mandap, has replaced the statue of Edwin Lutyens. The official handle of the President on X shared that this initiative is part of a series of steps aimed at eradicating remnants of colonial mentality and proudly embracing India's rich culture, heritage, and eternal traditions, while honoring those who made extraordinary contributions to the service of Bharat Mata.