Bhubaneswar, Aug. 16: The state culture department today received a jolt as eminent film personality Sarat Pujari, president of the Orissa Sangeet Natak Akademi, tendered his resignation alleging poor remuneration and lack of infrastructure for the body.

In his letter to state culture minister Prafulla Samal, Pujari expressed his discontent in the facilities given to him at the office.

“While joining as the president of the Orissa Sangeet Natak Akademi, I had informed the then culture minister, Debi Prasad Mishra, about my financial condition. It has been seven months since I held office and yet none of the promises have been fulfilled,” said the veteran actor in his letter.

“I, therefore, quit office with immediate effect from today,” he wrote.

Pujari held office as the president of the apex body of music, dance and drama in the state from February 19, 2011, after the post was lying vacant since August 2010, following the death of Sikander Alam, then president of Orissa Sangeet Natak Akademi. However, he was given a remuneration of only Rs 5,000 per month.

“The remuneration I receive is the salary of a fourth-grade employee whereas the workload on me is immense,” said the septuagenarian in his letter.

He also expressed hurt since his complaints were not paid attention to despite regular reminders. He also mentioned that he was promised a government quarter, a vehicle to commute with a driver appointed by the culture department and proper remuneration.

Meanwhile, Samal said the resignation would not be accepted.

“We are not accepting the resignation. He will be given all the necessary facilities he has rightly demanded. We will ensure that the matter is looked into and have requested him to complete his full term,” said Samal.

However, speaking to The Telegraph, Pujari said he has not received any written communication from the government.

“The minister has assured me verbally to extend all facilities and requested me not to press for the resignation. I don’t know what action will be taken but I may consider the minister’s request only after receiving a formal commitment,” he said.