PANAJI: The Kala Rakhonn Mandd has declared that its Supari Andolan will continue until all demands related to the restoration of Kala Academy and the welfare of the artist community are met.
Members of the Mandd met Art and Culture Minister Ramesh Tawadkar today, urging to expedite the restoration of the Kala Academy and to ensure that artists are actively involved in decisions concerning cultural infrastructure. The group highlighted the need for expert consultation during the proposed construction of new Ravindra Bhavans, stressing that design and technical aspects must consider the needs of performers and technicians rather than relying solely on engineers.
The delegation stated that the Minister assured them that he would take up the matter with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and see that the restoration work, currently under inspection by IIT Chennai, is completed to higher standards. IIT Chennai has conducted its first inspection, with two more visits scheduled before submitting its final report. Tawadkar also promised to increase the repair and maintenance budget, involve artists in planning, and reform the Cultural Policy in consultation with stakeholders.
The Mandd further demanded accountability for the lapses and financial mismanagement that occurred during earlier renovation works, calling for those responsible to be identified and punished.
