Bhubaneswar, June 29 (UDN): Allegations of major financial irregularities have surfaced in the ₹200-crore redevelopment project of Kalinga Studio undertaken during the previous BJD government’s tenure, raising questions over the utilisation of public funds and the quality of infrastructure created under the ambitious initiative.
The allegations come amid claims that despite the expenditure of crores of rupees on the studio’s modernisation and infrastructure upgrade, the revamped facility remains largely unsuitable for film production and shooting activities.
Industry stakeholders and members of the film fraternity have reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over the condition of the redeveloped studio, alleging that several facilities fail to meet the technical and operational requirements necessary for modern film production.
Questions have also been raised regarding the execution of the project, with allegations pointing towards possible discrepancies in construction works, infrastructure development and overall project implementation.
The redevelopment project was launched with the objective of transforming Kalinga Studio into a state-of-the-art film production hub and boosting Odisha’s film and entertainment industry. However, critics allege that the intended objectives have not been fully achieved despite substantial public investment.
The allegations have triggered demands for a comprehensive inquiry into the project to ascertain whether there were any financial irregularities or lapses in execution and to fix accountability, if required.
Officials are yet to issue a detailed response to the allegations. Meanwhile, stakeholders have called for an independent assessment of the studio infrastructure to determine its readiness for film production and identify the shortcomings that need immediate attention.
Kalinga Studio has long been regarded as a cornerstone of Odisha’s film industry, and concerns over its redevelopment have sparked wider discussions on transparency, accountability and effective utilisation of public resources in major infrastructure projects.