Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Goa government is actively considering filing a review petition before the Supreme Court seeking relaxation of its order prohibiting the playing of music beyond 10pm, particularly for beach shacks, restaurants, open-air wedding venues, and tourism-related events.
Environment Minister Alexio Sequeira informed the Assembly that consultations are underway with senior lawyers in Delhi to explore legal options. “We are looking into the matter seriously. A review petition will be filed,” Sequeira assured.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant echoed similar views and underlined the state’s intention to safeguard the interests of the tourism and events sector. “We are considering allowing music beyond 10pm till 1am, particularly for weddings, beach shacks, and restaurants. We don’t want tourism to be affected,” he said.
However, Sawant admitted that the main hurdle remains the objections raised by environmental activists, which have triggered the enforcement of the curfew. “We have no issue with granting permissions, but complaints from activists remain a major challenge. We are working on a solution within the framework of the law. The Supreme Court verdict cannot be bypassed,” he said.
The matter was raised in the House by MLA Vijai Sardesai, who said the 10pm sound curfew is hurting Goa’s tourism and wedding industry. He demanded the government allow music till 1am in designated zones. Supporting the demand, MLA Carlos Ferreira also suggested extending the limit to 12am.
In response, the Chief Minister assured the Assembly that the government will make necessary legal provisions to permit music during weddings and tourism activities till 1am.
