The 44th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa began today on a controversial note with Opposition Congress and a senior organiser boycotting the event.
Entertainment Society of Goa Vice Chairman Vishnu Wagh who headed the preparation of the festival, was conspicuous by his absence while Congress failed to show up because they were allegedly uninvited.
"I was busy that's why I could not attend the inaugural," said Wagh whose name was called on the stage repeatedly when he did not turn up.
According to ESG sources, Wagh is upset with State Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar for not promoting him as the Chairman of ESG, as promised.
State government yesterday announced Wagh as Chairman of ESG's Governing Council, a position which is much lesser than what he was assured.
Congress members boycotted the event.
"We were not invited for the event. We didn't go because we had no invitation," Goa Pradesh Congress Committee President Subhash Shirodkar told PTI.
However, Pratapsingh Rane, Leader of Opposition in Goa Assembly and a senior Congress legislator, was present for the event.
Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Manish Tewari was present for the inaugural.
Hollywood actress Susan Sarandon inaugurated the fest.
