The Congress on Wednesday in a memorandum to the Puri Collector demanded a Vigilance probe into the substandard renovation works of the Annapurna Theatre. The party charged of misappropriation of around Rs 50 lakh which was raised from Government and private sources.
Seeking proper inquiry into the expenditure, the party demanded strong actions against the erring persons involved in embezzlement of funds. The memorandum also reads that the heritage theatre near the Grand Road which is nearly 100–year-old had suffered damages in cyclone ‘Phailin’.
To give the ramshackle buildings a modern look, around Rs 50 lakh was spent in the repair and renovation works of the ceiling, stage, audience gallery, green room, light and sound system and the urinals. The Culture Department sanctioned Rs 20 lakh with Rs 15 lakh from MLA and MPLAD funds. Besides, an eminent person of the city donated Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 5 lakh was collected from many persons. Apart from the fund, many people donated construction materials, read the letter.
“However, if one visits the theatre, the poor quality of works and embezzlement of money can be clearly felt,” alleged Congress leader Swadhina Panda.
Notably, Minister Maheswar Mohanty had inaugurated the renovated Annapurna Theatre in evening on the day.