Goa Tourism Minister: Sunburn Music Festival To Conclude Before 31 December

In the latest update, it has been announced that Goa will not be hosting the Sunburn Music Festival on 31 December. Rohan Khaunte, the Tourism Minister of Goa, revealed that the highly anticipated event is scheduled to take place from 28 – 30 December  in North Goa.

Khaunte emphasized the meticulous planning surrounding the festival, mentioning that a provisional No Objection Certificate (NOC) has been issued to Sunburn for the specified dates. Additionally, a committee has been formed to ensure strict adherence to the guidelines set by the High Court.

Correcting misinformation, Khaunte sternly warned against newspapers that wrongly claimed the festival's extension till 31 December. The provisional NOC explicitly mentions the designated period of 28 to 30 December, and any spreading of false information will be met with accountability measures.

In response to opposition from locals, the Goa Tourism Department, chaired by Minister Khaunte, had previously denied permission for the Sunburn Music Festival on 31 December. The Empowered Committee upheld this decision and firmly declined permission for music to be played beyond 10 PM.

Khaunte clarified that provisional approval has been granted for the festival to unfold over three days, from 28 to 30 December, and any deviation from these rules will not be tolerated. He cautioned organisers against expecting leniency.

The Minister disclosed that the organisers initially sought permission for the event to run from 4pm to midnight. However, after careful consideration, the committee approved it only until 10pm. Ongoing discussions with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant are addressing various aspects of the event and its impact on the local community.

Chief Minister Sawant, in alignment with public sentiment, emphasised that if there is widespread opposition to the festival ending on 31 December, it will not be permitted to proceed. This statement came in response to concerns raised by BJP MLA Delilah Lobo regarding potential adverse effects on local businesses and more.