Special Correspondent
Panaji
Calling for transparency and accountability in the functioning of Goa’s premier art institution, a delegation of Kala Rakhan Mandd on Friday met Kala Academy member secretary Shankar Gaonkar, urging the government to conduct an independent audit and inquiry into renovation expenditures and tender processes.
The delegation said the move was necessary to restore public confidence following allegations of corruption in recent renovation works. Members also raised concerns over poor infrastructure, administrative irregularities, and lack of transparency in the academy’s functioning.
The delegation, led by convener Devidas Amonkar, included noted artistes and cultural activists Cecille Rodrigues, Dnyanesh Moghe, Francis Coelho, Sai Palondikar, Damodar Kamat, Dilip Prabhudessai, and Harshada Kerkar Sonak. Kala Rakhan Mandd also demanded that the academy release its annual calendar of activities at the start of each year.
Gaonkar assured the delegation that their concerns would be taken seriously and that corrective measures would be initiated on priority to improve infrastructure, transparency, and institutional planning.
They further said that the 50th year of the academy’s prestigious Konkani Drama Competition was not celebrated on the scale it deserved.
reflecting the administration’s indifference to theatre and performing arts.
Members said the institution, once envisioned as a hub for nurturing Goan art and culture, has been reduced to a body plagued by neglect, damaged facilities, and poor engagement with the local art community.
