Maharashtra banner says it's 65th Republic Day instead of 66th

MUMBAI: In a faux pas on the part of the state administration, a banner at the site of the Republic Day celebration in Mumbai erroneously said '65th Republic Day' instead of '66th Republic Day'.

"I have been told about this technical error that happened during the Republic day celebration at Shivaji Park. As of now, I can only say that we will ascertain the facts," Maharashtra chief secretary Swadheen Kshatriya told PTI.

Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Chairman of the Legislative Council Shivajirao Deshmukh, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Haribhau Bagde, Mumbai Mayor Snehal Ambekar, diplomats, senior serving and retired government officials were also present on the occasion, apart from the general public.

Opposition parties were quick to lap up the opportunity to take potshots at the government over the issue.

"The BJP came to power on the plank of good governance. On an important day like this, when the state administration makes mistakes on the number of years since our constitution came into force, it speaks volumes about the governance of the present government. This is a grave mistake," Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant said.

The NCP demanded an apology. "This is a grave blunder. There should be an enquiry and action should be taken against whoever is responsible. Since the government is responsible for the state administration, the ruling party should apologies to the people of this country," the party spokesperson Nawab Malik said.