Goa Government Forms Artist Committee to Address Kala Academy Renovation Issues

Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced in the state assembly the formation of a committee of artists to address complaints about the renovation work of the iconic Kala Academy in Panaji. Opposition parties criticized the quality of the renovations, leading to demands for further investigation and accountability.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday assured the state legislative assembly that a committee of artists will be formed to address grievances regarding the quality of renovation work at the iconic Kala Academy building in Panaji.

During the session, opposition benches cornered the government over the issues surrounding the renovation. Artists had begun protests over the quality of work conducted by the contractor, sparking debates. The Kala Academy building, a landmark originally constructed in the 1980s by world-renowned architect Charles Correa, has become a focal point of controversy.

Goa Forward Party (GFP) MLA Vijai Sardesai requested the formation of a House committee to investigate the renovation, while Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Venzy Viegas demanded that a First Information Report (FIR) be filed against the contractor responsible for the renovation.

Responding to the opposition, CM Sawant stated that a committee composed of ''genuine artists'' will be established to provide suggestions regarding the building. He also mentioned that minor problems faced by the renovated structure have been rectified, and the contractor is obliged to maintain the building for five years as part of the contract.

CM Sawant added that the state government received a report from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mumbai confirming the structural stability of the building. Additionally, issues concerning the acoustic system in the Dinanath Mangeshkar auditorium have been resolved following recommendations by the Charles Correa Foundation.

(With inputs from agencies.)