No Sunburn Festival on 31st December If the People Don't Want It: Goa CM Pramod Sawant

by  EVENTFAQS Bureau Industry Watch | December 14, 2023 | News

Sunburn Goa

The Sunburn electronic dance music (EDM) festival, a much-anticipated annual event scheduled to take place from 28 to 30 Dec, is facing controversy and backlash in Goa over its extension to include December 31st in its schedule. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has addressed the concerns raised by the public, shedding light on the reasons behind the decision and assuring that the festival's fate rests in the hands of the people.

CM Sawant's Response:

In response to the opposition voiced by BJP MLA Delilah Lobo and residents of Anjuna-Caisua, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that if the people do not want the Sunburn Music Festival to take place on December 31, it will be canceled. Sawant emphasized the importance of respecting the wishes of the locals and ensuring that the festival does not disrupt the normal flow of life for the residents.

Speculations and Concerns:

The primary concern voiced by villagers revolves around the potential adverse impact on local businesses and the likelihood of chaotic traffic on New Year's Eve. The festival, traditionally a three-day affair, has been extended to a four-day event, causing unease among the residents who are accustomed to a shorter duration. This abrupt change has led to speculations about the festival's impact on traffic, noise pollution, and the overall well-being of the local community.

Legal Intervention:

The high court of Bombay at Goa has intervened, directing the government and the Goa State Pollution Control Board to submit an action plan to ensure that there is no noise pollution during the Sunburn EDM festival. This move reflects the court's commitment to addressing concerns related to environmental and noise regulations.

Government Assurances and AAP Allegations:

CM Pramod Sawant and Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte have both assured the public that Sunburn will not be held on December 31, with Khaunte stating that the state government is clear on denying permissions for such events on that day. However, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has alleged backdoor negotiations between the government and festival organizers to shift the event to Porvorim.

The Unanswered Question:

As the controversy surrounding Sunburn 2023 continues to unfold, the organizers remain silent on the speculation and allegations. The question that lingers in the air is whether the festival will indeed take place on December 31st. In the midst of conflicting statements and concerns from various stakeholders, the public awaits a clear and definitive response from the organizers.

The Sunburn 2023 EDM festival in Goa has become a topic of contention, with locals expressing their concerns and the government addressing the issues raised. As the festival's fate hangs in the balance, the organizers are urged to provide clarity on whether the event will proceed on December 31st or if alternative arrangements are being considered. The public awaits a transparent and decisive statement from the organizers to put an end to the ongoing speculation and uncertainty surrounding Sunburn 2023.