The construction of the Kala Bhavan had begun during the previous Congress government but after the BJP came to power the agencies involved abandoned the work.
Speaking to reporters, Godinho said, “Although I am upset I don’t want to make a strong statement as it may be misunderstood that I want to shift to Cortalim constituency which is not true. Every time I look at the Kala Bhavan and the way the MLA has abandoned the project it pains me. It was her duty to ensure that all spillover projects be brought to their logical conclusion. I am surprised that in the last three years nothing has happened.”
He added, “The records of Ravindra Bhavan at Baina show that the bhavan is booked daily which means that the completion of the Kala Bhavan is the need of the hour. It would be a class performing centre for the youth and the people of not only Cortalim but of Mormugao as the project is centrally located and has easy access.”
Without naming anyone Godinho said, “Once those in power were deliberately pushing to convert the Kala Bhavan into a hospital. This speaks volumes of the insensitivity on their part and thus my demand would be that the State government start work at the site so that the project can help promote art and culture in Mormugao taluka.”
Till date the government has invested about Rs 31 crore on civil and other works of the project. Presently only the structure is ready. The art and culture department last year decided to appoint a new consultant for the project who will draw a plan as to what best can be done with the project.
