Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: As Sunburn Goa 2024 prepares for its comeback in December this year, but with a twist of new venue, has sparked major controversy surrounds the popular electronic dance music (EDM) festival. While the event organizers are exploring various options in North and South- meant with public opposition, both the government and ruling party has preferred to remain tight-lipped on the entire issue.
The event, which was slated to be held in South Goa from December 28 to December 30, encountered increasing opposition from local residents, political leaders, and environmental advocates for many reasons. More so, the Goa Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) refused to grant its nod to the event organizers, who were planning to host the event at Quitol-Betul- a IDC plot.
This forced the event organizers to scout for new venue and now they have zeroed upon Camurlim in Bardez. The Carmurlim Communidade has received a formal request from the festival promoters and the matter will be discussed in a general body meeting of the Gaunkars on October 6.
However, amidst all these happenings, what is interesting is that the government has maintained complete silence. Neither the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant nor the tourism minister Rohan Khaunte has made any comment, despite growing opposition to the EDM.
On the other hand, Thivim MLA and Minister Nilkanth said that he has nothing to do with the event shifting to Camurlim. “I am not the authority to deal with this. I have nothing to do. The authorities will take a call. If they allow, the event will happen,” he said.
On the other hand, BJP President and MP Sadanand Tanavade feigned ignorance about the festival.
The locals, from the proposed sites, are opposing the Sunburn festival as they claim that the three-day event is attended solely by individuals involved in drug dealing and consumption.
Although the festival organisers have moved forward with ticket sales and marketing efforts, the official authorisation from the Goa government is yet to be obtained.
Tourism officials said that Sunburn promoters have yet to submit a formal proposal for review.
This delay has increased frustration among local communities and opposition leaders, who are calling for greater transparency and strict adherence to regulatory standards before approving the event’s relocation.
