Phal Dessai raised objections over the manner in which the portrait was put up, questioning why no prior information was given regarding its installation. This led to a heated exchange, with both sides levelling allegations.
While D’Costa maintained that the council had already approved a resolution to install the portrait, the minister countered by asking why only one portrait had been installed when four had been sanctioned, and that too without informing the council.
Defending his actions, D’Costa pointed out that the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had earlier been installed without a formal resolution, yet it faced no opposition due to the leader’s revered status.
He questioned why objections were being raised now despite a resolution being in place. Concerns were also expressed regarding the message inscribed on the portrait.
It may be noted that the council had passed a resolution to install four portraits in the municipal hall”those of Jack Sequeira, Shabu Desai, Birsa Munda, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. D’Costa further stated that he was willing to bear the cost of installing the remaining portraits himself.
Meanwhile, the municipal council clarified that the decision was to install all portraits using council funds, and assured that the expenditure incurred by D’Costa for the already installed portrait would be reimbursed.
Speaking to reporters, D’Costa said the portrait had cost Rs 33,000 and is expected to last for nearly 80 years.
SMC Chairperson Santishka Gadkar said although the resolution covered all four portraits, D’Costa had proceeded unilaterally by installing only one without consulting others.
She also suggested removing the message written on the portrait and reiterated that the remaining installations would be carried out using municipal funds, with reimbursement offered for the existing expense.
