CM rules out shifting
IFFI
Vasudev Pagi
16 November 2007
Goa Chief Minister Digamber Kamat has ruled out any possibility
of shifting the International Film Festival of India from
the state.
"I have clarified time and again that there is no question
of shifting IFFI from Goa... Neither I have received any communication
in this regard nor the topic is being discussed," Kamat
told reporters during a press briefing to detail cultural
programme chalked out during the IFFI.
The IFFI will begin from November 23 and culminate on December
3 in Panaji.
"Shifting of venue is just a rumour. I don't know who
told you (media) all these things," Kamat shot back.
When pointed out that West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb
Bhattacharya had specifically favoured shifting the festival
venue to Kolkata, Kamat said that the WB CM should himself
visit and see how well the festival is organised.
"I can understand if someone who has been coming here
and facing problems talks of shifting the venue," Kamat
said.
The Chief Minister also ruled out the possibility of anti-special
economic zone (SEZ) agitation in the state casting its shadow
on the film festival.
Two umbrella organisations representing NGOs, political parties
and catholic church had warned of agitation beginning November
17 if the SEZs are not scrapped.
Their stir was coinciding with the dates of IFFI.
"As far as SEZs are concerned, Goans are matured enough
to know what is good and what is bad for the state,"
Kamat said.
He reiterated that the state government is reviewing all
the SEZs permitted in the state.
Your
Comments Please
