Bhubaneswar, June 1 (BNP): Alleging irregularities in the functioning and development of Kalinga Studio, two leading film industry bodies in Odisha — the All Odisha Film Directors Association and the Odisha Producers Guild — have demanded a detailed investigation into the matter while urging the state government to immediately appoint a Chairperson to the Odisha Film Development Corporation (OFDC).
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The demand was raised during a press conference attended by veteran filmmaker and Padma Shri awardee Sisir Mishra, film director Sanjay Nayak, Producers Guild representative Arun Mohanty and members of both organisations.
Representatives of the film bodies claimed that long-pending issues affecting Odisha’s film industry require urgent government intervention and alleged a lack of adequate infrastructure and transparency in the management of Kalinga Studio, one of the state’s prominent film production facilities.
According to the organisations, a formal complaint highlighting alleged irregularities has already been submitted to the Vigilance Department and the Chief Minister, seeking an inquiry into the utilisation of funds reportedly allocated for the studio’s development.
Addressing the media, Sisir Mishra stressed the need for stronger institutional support and infrastructure for the growth of the Odia film industry. He questioned the utilisation of funds reportedly earmarked for Kalinga Studio and urged authorities to clarify expenditure details through an independent inquiry.
Industry members also raised concerns over the present condition of studio infrastructure, alleging that essential shooting facilities required for film production remain inadequate or unavailable despite claims of significant investment.
Director Sanjay Nayak questioned the current state of infrastructure at the studio and called for greater accountability in its development, while also demanding the appointment of a credible and capable Chairperson to the OFDC to address administrative and developmental concerns in the sector.
The organisations maintained that the Odisha film industry requires policy support, improved infrastructure and transparent governance to realise its full potential. They urged the government to initiate a fair investigation into the allegations and take corrective measures to revive confidence among filmmakers and producers.
No official response has yet been issued by concerned authorities regarding the allegations raised by the film bodies.
