New Delhi (Agency): Rohan Khaunte, Goa’s Tourism Minister, has stated firmly that the government will not be swayed by the demands of the Sunburn Music Festival organizers. His comments come amidst speculation that the festival will be moved to Mopa, which is located close to the Manohar International Airport.
“Music festivals should play music. We will not allow musical events to make the Goa government dance. There is a process for organizing events,” Khaunte told the media. “Whatever announcement they have made is for their best knowledge…But Goa government is not in the mood to dance as per their wishes. They should know it first,” he further clarified.
The Sunburn Festival, which began in 2007, is a large music event that attracts thousands of fans from India and other countries. Usually held in December, it has become a staple in Goa’s cultural and tourism scene. However, there is opposition from local residents of Mopa-Pernem in North Goa to the idea of shifting the festival to their area.
Khaunte emphasized that the government has established procedures for organizing such events and will not deviate from them to satisfy the festival organizers. “Very clear thing… people who are organizing music festivals should not start thinking that they can make the government dance to their tune,” he reiterated.
This statement by the Tourism Minister is not just a directive for the Sunburn Festival but serves as a general guideline for all events that seek to take place in Goa. It underscores the government’s commitment to follow due process and regulations while also taking into account the concerns of local communities.
Many see Khaunte’s statement as a strong assertion of governmental authority, ensuring that the interests of local communities and official procedures are not overlooked in the face of big events that might bring in tourism revenue. It balances the need for tourism, which is vital for Goa’s economy, with the necessity to maintain order and adhere to local sentiments and regulations.