Dharmanagar, March 9: The statue of India’s first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, at Halai Mora in Kumarghat reportedly remains in a neglected state. 

Installed on October 31, 2022, with an investment of nearly Rs 2 crore, the statue was initially a significant attraction. However, over time, the statue has fallen into disrepair, locals said.

As there are no lights around the statue, the statue remains in darkness after sunset and parts of its base have crumbled due to lack of maintenance. 

It was learnt that the area has become a hub for miscreants. 

Besides, ongoing work on a nearby water treatment plant has blocked the access road which made it difficult for people to visit. 

Local residents blamed the Kumarghat Municipal Council and sub-divisional administration for the negligence.