Team Herald
PANJIM: The Opposition Congress and cultural body Kala Rakhonn Mannd have demanded the immediate dismissal of Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude, condemning his offensive remarks against veteran actor Sharad Ponkshe and accusing him of insulting the artistic community.
“It is absolutely disgraceful and condemnable that Minister Gaude has stooped to such a low level by referring to renowned actor Sharad Ponkshe as a ‘Supari Baaz’. Such undignified language from a cabinet minister reflects not just his personal arrogance, but the BJP government’s broader contempt for the art and culture fraternity,” said Pranav Parab, general secretary of the North Goa District Congress Committee and a theatre artiste himself.
Parab further criticised Gaude for failing to take responsibility for the technical failures during the performance of the acclaimed play Purush at the Kala Academy on April 13. “Instead of accepting responsibility for this technical disaster, he chose to hurl insults. He should have apologised to the entire team of the play and the people of Goa. A person who insults artistes and fails to protect cultural institutions has no moral right to continue as Minister for Art and Culture,” he stated.
The Kala Rakhonn Mannd echoed these sentiments, calling the Minister’s accusation that Ponkshe had taken a “supari” (contract) against him not only baseless, but reckless and shameful. “It is an insult to every artiste who speaks truth to power,” said Cecille Rodrigues, secretary of the organisation.
Rodrigues pointed out that Ponkshe had raised valid concerns over the technical failures that disrupted the Purush performance, yet showed grace and professionalism by apologising to the audience despite the disruptions being beyond his control. “Rather than acknowledging these systemic issues and committing to resolve them, Gaude launched a verbal assault with accusations and personal attacks,” Rodrigues said.
Calling his conduct dangerous, she added, “His behaviour seeks to silence those who dare to demand accountability. The Minister’s outrageous accusations, coupled with his appalling language, cannot be brushed aside.”
Both organisations have demanded that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant act in public interest and immediately remove Gaude from his Cabinet position.