The Goa assembly experienced an upheaval as opposition members demanded action concerning the recent slab collapse at the Kala Academy building in Panaji. They vehemently demanded the resignation of the state’s Art and Culture Minister, Govind Gaude, holding him accountable for the incident.
The tumultuous scene, part of the 18-day-long monsoon session, involved several members including Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, AAP’s Venzy Viegas, Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai, and Revolutionary Goans Party’s Viresh Borkar. These members rushed to the well of the House with placards, igniting a clamorous environment.
Designed by famed architect Charles Correa, the Kala Academy building is presently undergoing renovation. The opposition members asserted that the collapse illustrates systemic corruption. Despite Assembly Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar’s attempts to calm the situation, the uproar persisted, prompting a half-hour adjournment.
When the assembly resumed, Sardesai maintained his protest while other members participated in the Question Hour. The matter was further discussed during the Zero Hour, prompting a response from Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. He assured that anyone found culpable would face consequences.
In order to investigate the collapse, IIT-Roorkee has been tasked with producing a comprehensive report on the structure and the underlying reasons for the collapse. Similarly, the principal chief engineer of the Public Works Department is expected to submit a preliminary report.
The Chief Minister committed to tabling both preliminary and final reports during the ongoing assembly session, due to conclude on August 10. This development indicates growing scrutiny of public infrastructure safety in Goa.
