Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) has removed a controversial sculpture from Margalla Avenue after widespread backlash on social media. The artwork, showing two golden hands holding spheres, faced heavy criticism for its unclear meaning and design.
The sculpture quickly went viral online, drawing ridicule from citizens who questioned its relevance and called it out for lacking cultural or artistic value. Many labelled it “tone-deaf” and unfit for display in a public location within the federal capital.
According to CDA officials, the structure was part of a corporate social responsibility (CSR) effort by a private housing society. However, the design had not been officially approved by the CDA’s art or planning departments, raising concerns about oversight.
The removal process reportedly began a day earlier but was temporarily paused due to heavy rain. A crane was seen on-site preparing to dismantle the sculpture, which was eventually taken down by the housing society responsible for its installation.
Despite the removal, confusion remains about how the artwork was allowed to be installed without prior clearance. Authorities have not confirmed whether the CDA acted on public pressure or received instructions from higher government offices.
Meanwhile, the sculpture became a target for memes and online jokes, with many users demanding transparency from the CDA about its approval process and questioning the lack of public input in civic beautification projects.