Vadodara: In a dramatic turn of events, the BITA (Baroda IT Association) Garba event, scheduled to be held at Akota Stadium, has been cancelled at the last minute by the Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC). The decision came after an incident of misbehavior involving a BITA representative and a municipal employee.

According to officials, during the process of stadium allocation, a BITA member allegedly slapped a municipal employee while making a derogatory remark. The act sparked outrage among the civic staff, who expressed strong displeasure over the humiliation of one of their colleagues.

Taking serious note of the incident, VMC Commissioner Arun Mahesh Babu ordered the immediate cancellation of BITA’s stadium allotment. Following his directive, the Tourist Officer issued an official communication to BITA, withdrawing permission to host the Garba at Shri Chhotubhai Purani Pavilion (Akota Stadium).

Municipal employees, who work tirelessly for the city’s development, had voiced frustration over the disrespect shown to their colleague. The Commissioner’s swift action, however, has been welcomed by the staff, restoring a sense of security and dignity among the workforce.

The incident has cast a shadow over the festive spirit in Vadodara, where Garba is a cultural highlight. BITA has not yet issued a statement in response to the cancellation.