Activist Yubaraj Safal Protests Against Corruption at Lalit Kala Pradnya Pratisthan

Kathmandu: Social activist Yubaraj Safal staged a protest today against corruption at the Lalit Kala Pradnya Pratisthan. On Wednesday, he conducted a demonstration in front of the Pratisthan’s central office, highlighting alleged corruption within the institution.

He informed that the Pratisthan had signed an agreement with Lumbini Province to create 41 sculptures, while the Lalit Kala Pradnya Pratisthan itself acted as the contractor.

“The Lalit Kala Pradnya Pratisthan is responsible for making 41 sculptures, with a total estimated cost of NPR 13.6 million. This work is being carried out under an agreement and collaboration between the Lumbini Provincial Government and the Nepal Lalit Kala Pradnya Pratisthan. There are hundreds, even thousands, of sculptors in Nepal who earn their livelihood by making sculptures. Yet, despite their presence, the Lalit Kala Pradnya Pratisthan has become the contractor itself. Since when did it start engaging in contracting work?” he questioned.

During the protest, the demands raised included: the complete ban on imported sculptures, the creation of an environment that promotes the export of Nepali sculptures, the establishment of standard wages for Nepali sculptors and artists, and conducting annual art exhibitions where awards are distributed based on a fair evaluation of work.