Allege corruption in renovation work, demand audit
PANAJI
The recent recurrence of leaks at the Kala Academy, particularly during the ongoing pre-monsoon rains, has sparked concerns for the Dinanath Mangeshkar auditorium, despite which the authorities have remained tight-lipped on the matter.
Against the backdrop of CM Pramod Sawant and key party leaders immersed in the campaign as the Lok Sabha elections enter the final phase, the opposition has seized upon this opportunity, once again levelling allegations of a scam. A senior official, however, indicated that upon their return, a thorough assessment of the situation will be conducted.
The AAP President, Amit Palekar, wasted no time in casting blame, attributing the leaks to alleged corruption. “Expected! Even slight showers have Kala Academy’s auditorium leaking and water pouring on the audience. It is a clear sign of the abundant corruption involved in repairs of this iconic building designed by Charles Correa by the BJP government led by CM Sawant and Minister Govind Gaude,” he tweeted.
GFP General Secretary Durgadas Kamat demanded scrutiny and a comprehensive audit of all works carried out. He sought the CM to promptly inspect the Kala Academy in light of the unfolding situation, whereas Congress’ Amarnath Panjikar took a sly dig, stating, “Monsoon tiatr festival in air-conditioned Kala Academy auditorium... nature once again exposes corrupt government...”
On Sunday evening, amidst heavy downpours, the auditorium began to leak during a performance of the Konkani tiatr ‘Girgirem’. Attendees were startled when water droplets began trickling down from the roof, only to witness a significant leakage thereafter.
Speaking to The Goan, the director of the ‘Girgirem’ show, Rosefern, slammed the recurring issue of roof leaks and false ceiling collapses at Kala Academy. “It is disappointing that authorities have failed to address these issues promptly... Despite past incidents, no corrective action has been taken by the authorities,” he said, citing instances where accumulated water at the entrance inconvenienced attendees and demanded accountability.
Tiatrist and filmmaker Joywin Fernandes also echoed similar views, adding that such incidents don’t surprise him any longer. “With this current government, I am not even surprised. We artists are not taken seriously, so how will our Temple of Art (Kala Academy) be taken seriously?” he questioned.
