Discover why Sunburn EDM Festival faces strong opposition in Goa due to past controversies like violations, drugs, and pollution issues.
Janardhan S. Bhandari, former General Secretary of G.P.C.C., has taken a strong stance against the Sunburn EDM festival in Goa, leading a concerted effort to prevent its future occurrence. Recently, Bhandari and affiliated parties submitted a comprehensive memorandum to government officials, including Dr. Sneha Gitte, Chief Secretary, and district Collectors, urging them to deny permission for the controversial event.
The memorandum outlines a litany of concerns stemming from Sunburn’s checkered past. It highlights persistent issues such as flagrant violations of government regulations and permissions, documented instances of drug-related disturbances, and significant environmental concerns due to excessive noise and air pollution during previous festivals.
Central to the opposition’s argument are tragic incidents of drug overdoses resulting in fatalities, including notable cases in 2009, 2014, and 2019. The memorandum also references arrests for drug possession within festival grounds, underscoring the festival’s perceived association with drug use and its implications for public safety.
Legal scrutiny has further compounded Sunburn’s woes, with the High Court recently chastising organizers for exceeding permissible sound levels and questioning the expedited granting of permissions under dubious circumstances. These violations have not only flouted court directives but also sparked community outrage, leading to calls for stricter enforcement and accountability.
Beyond legal and safety concerns, logistical issues such as severe traffic congestion and compromised law enforcement capabilities during the festival have strained local resources. Reports of organized crime activities and thefts during past events have heightened anxieties about public order and the festival’s overall impact on Goa’s social fabric.
Moreover, allegations of corruption and tax evasion against Sunburn organizers have cast a shadow over the festival’s credibility, exacerbating public distrust and resistance.
In conclusion, Bhandari and supporters argue vehemently against sanctioning future Sunburn events in Goa, citing a cumulative effect of legal, safety, environmental, and social concerns. Should authorities choose to proceed despite these objections, the memorandum pledges continued opposition from the Congress Party and affiliated organizations, signaling a commitment to safeguarding Goa’s interests and public welfare above all else.