The people are starved of transparency, accountability and justice that define democracy and good governance. This is clearly evident in the iconic Kala Academy fiasco. The former minister for art and culture Govind Gaude is still going strong with another closure of the building for major defect rectification wef August 1. If we recall for the renovation work the building was shut for around 2 years scheduled to open in 2022. It was opened by the CM on November 10, 2023 just in time for IFFI. Since then the outdoor open-air auditorium roof has fallen, there have been many flaws and some artistes were not happy performing there. I attended one of the shows and was shocked at the expected renewed facilities”the auditoriums, sound system, toilets, etc.”in a renovated building reportedly costing Rs 75 crore. An official government investigation committee was reportedly formed reluctantly but went nowhere. Many professional advisories, even from the Charles Correia Foundation were ignored. Consultants IIT Madras have spelled out the structural and other flaws. Government says no scam and all procedures were followed. The Kala scam needs investigation and exposure by an independent agency with court supervision if justice is to be served.
