Wasting public funds is a persistent concern in Sindh, frequently invoked as a shield against criticism regarding the provincial government’s development priorities. This issue has recently come under scrutiny with the allocation of Rs14 million for the Lahooti Melo festival, sparking debate over its operational model.
The founder of the Lahooti Melo disclosed via a social media post that while the Sindh government contributes this significant sum, 70-80 percent of the event’s total expenditure is covered by sponsors, concerts, and public support. This financial structure prompts questions, particularly when many other cultural events across the province operate without an admission fee.
Scrutiny Over Public Funds
Numerous festivals in Sindh, including the Karachi Literature Festival (KLF), Sindh Literature Festival, Ayaz Melo, and Adab Festival, are open to the public free of charge. These events, often supported by government funding and considerable resources for security and manpower, set a precedent for accessibility. The utilization of Rs14 million in public funds for an event that still charges an entry fee seems anomalous amidst these comparisons. For more details, visit SindhNews.com, concerning such funding.
Considering the economic challenges faced by many across the province, the official grant represents a substantial investment of public funds. The decision to charge for admission to the Lahooti Melo, despite this significant governmental backing, raises concerns about equitable access and efficient resource management.
The debate underscores an urgent need for transparency and re-evaluation of how public funds are utilized by cultural events, ensuring they are accessible to all citizens of Sindh. This incident calls for greater accountability in governmental support for festivals.