Preparations continue despite revoked NOC and official denial; locals decry blatant violations
MAPUSA
In a stark reminder of how regulations often take a backseat in Goa’s party belt, preparations for a high-profile music event in Anjuna continued unabated – despite revoked permissions, official denials and mounting public outrage.
Even as residents and authorities raised red flags, organisers pushed ahead with setting up infrastructure on comunidade land in Survey No 206/1, reinforcing a growing perception that in the party villages of Anjuna and Vagator, the rule of law is routinely overshadowed by commercial interests.
The controversy centres around a “sunset-to-night” musical event featuring Grammy award-winning DJ Black Coffee, widely promoted on social media as being hosted by Sunburn and Paradox at a new venue in Vagator.
Tickets were put on sale through popular platforms, with the event scheduled to begin at 4 pm.
However, what has angered locals is not just the scale of the event, but the apparent disregard for due process.
The Comunidade of Anjuna, which had initially granted a no-objection certificate (NOC) to organiser Nilkant Porob on March 4, revoked the same on April 1, citing the interests of villagers.
Despite this, work at the site continued, with stage erection and even sound testing reportedly taking place as late as Thursday.
Adding to the confusion, Deputy Collector of Bardez, Varsha Parab, categorically stated that no official permission had been granted for the event.
Yet, on the ground, the preparations told a different story.
For residents, this is not an isolated incident but part of a troubling pattern where laws and sensitivities are routinely ignored in the coastal party hub.
Tensions escalated further as the event was scheduled on Good Friday, a day of deep religious significance for the local Christian community.
“People are angry and hurt. Good Friday is a very special day in our calendar and they want to create this noise? This is not acceptable. If they play the music, we will come out on the streets,” said resident Janie Crasto, echoing the sentiments of many who have long complained about relentless noise pollution.
Activists also questioned the organisers’ intent.
“Despite revocation of permission by the comunidade, they are continuing with the setup. This shows clear contempt for the law and local sensitivities,” said Jawish Moniz, a vocal anti-loud music campaigner.
The opposition has also found resonance within local parishes, where priests have objected to the timing of the event and called upon the faithful to protest and approach the police if necessary.
Meanwhile, villagers are planning a peaceful candlelight march near the venue, even as frustration simmers over what many describe as blatant defiance of the law.
Music event called off amid mounting public pressure
MAPUSA: In a dramatic climbdown after days of mounting tension and public outrage, the controversial music event planned in Anjuna on the evening of Good Friday has been cancelled, with organisers bowing to sustained local pressure.
The event had triggered strong backlash even before it could take off.
“Presently, the event is suspended. But who knows, they may shift it to some other clubs,” said Vagator resident Jawish Moniz.
The Comunidade of Anjuna, which had initially granted a no-objection certificate, later revoked it citing public concern, while the administration confirmed no permission was issued.
Despite this, organisers had continued setting up the venue.
