The decision of the Goa govt to extend the noise pollution deadline from 10 pm to 12 midnight on 15 festival days in a year needs to be appreciated. The law applies to one and all, irrespective of whether it is a church, temple, dance hall or beach party. All should abide by the law and there should be no further concessions or relaxations even if the music is low decibel music. The system has worked successfully in other states, why not in Goa? Christmas and New Year midnight mass can well start at 10-30. p.m and wind up at 12 midnight , without diminishing in any way the liturgy or solemnity of the events. The question of the church applying for permission on such occasions therefore does not arise.
