KARSTEN MIRANDA
The recent Goa Assembly session debate on extending the sound restriction timing of 10 pm has been music to the ears of those who have for long been demanding this extension and have been pained at the narrative that has not been taken into consideration so far. While there are cases of genuine concern and certain establishments who have defied not just State government directions but even those of the High Court like in Anjuna, others from different parts of Goa have questioned if such blanket generalisation across the State was a fair decision.
Following Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s announcement that the State government is considering filing a review petition in the Supreme Court to relax the 10 pm sound curfew, stakeholders have presented varied proposals for extending music timings for weddings and tourism-related events.
For years now, Goan weddings have been the focal point for such discussions where there have been pleas to allow such functions at open air venues to go beyond 10 pm. However, those who are for the sound ban extension, and this is not just performers or establishments or tourists but locals themselves, have questioned why they have been denied the chance to go to say a restaurant and listen to music post 10 pm. As most point out, they go out for dinner only so late and it is kind of a buzz kill when the music shuts at 10 pm.
From the performers, there is a recognition that maybe there are pockets that the sound restriction is required but they believe there should be zoning in Goa and places should be identified where such music would not necessarily lead to a disturbance post 10 pm, say in an area that does not have a dense residential population around it. For those who live right next door to such venues, this has been a thorn in their lives and they often call the authorities themselves to complain about the noise exceeding 10 pm.
The Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) has taken a measured approach to the debate, with North Goa Vice-President Aakash Madgavkar stating that while the association considers the Assembly discussion as a good move, they have specific recommendations.
“Indoor spaces with proper permissions and sound proofing of the venue should be allowed till whatever time within the ambit of the law. This will not affect residential premises,” Madgavkar explained.
However, for outdoor spaces, TTAG suggests they should only be extended till 11pm from the current 10 pm within permissible decibel levels, emphasising it should not be extended beyond 11pm as it will affect residential premises.
The association has been particularly vocal about areas like Anjuna, Vagator and other such areas where there are constant complaints, stating these should be strictly adhered to as people residing nearby are clearly getting affected.
The Shack Owners Welfare Society of Goa (SOWS) has presented a more aggressive timeline. Cruz Cardozo, SOWS president, described the current restriction as “a major source of disappointment for tourists, particularly international visitors, who are accustomed to vibrant nightlife.” The society has requested extending music permissions till 12 am or 1 am, especially for licenced establishments, while ensuring noise levels are managed responsibly.
Cardozo also highlighted the impact on local celebrations, noting that “Goan wedding celebrations also stop at 10 pm. We need to celebrate weddings till midnight.”
The current restrictions have created an unusual paradox where Goa, famous worldwide for its vibrant nightlife and party culture, enforces one of the strictest sound curfews in India. Industry insiders point out the irony that while most beach parties continue till midnight in South Goa, the legal framework doesn’t support such activities, creating a grey area of enforcement.
“The current situation has forced many venues to either shut down early or risk legal action,” said a restaurant owner from North Goa. “We see tourists coming in for dinner at 9.30 pm and then having to tell them the music will stop in 30 minutes. It’s embarrassing and hurts our business.”
Local musicians have also expressed frustration. “We understand the need for regulations, but the blanket restriction doesn’t consider venues that are away from residential areas,” said a Goan musician who performs at various beach venues. “There should be different rules for different locations based on their surroundings.”
However, residents living near entertainment venues present a starkly different perspective. Many have been waging a continuous battle against noise pollution, with some cases reaching the High Court.
“Every weekend becomes a nightmare for families with young children and elderly members,” said a resident from a coastal village who has been filing regular complaints with authorities. “The sound doesn’t just stop at 10 pm as mandated - many venues continue illegally, and we have to call the police repeatedly.”
Environmental activists argue that noise pollution has serious health implications beyond just disturbing sleep. “Prolonged exposure to high decibel levels can cause hearing damage, stress, and cardiovascular problems,” explained a Goa-based environmental consultant. “The 10 pm deadline exists for legitimate health and environmental reasons, not just to spoil anyone’s fun.”
Several residential associations in popular tourist areas have been vocal about their concerns. A representative from a North Goa residents’ association noted, “We’re not against tourism or entertainment, but there has to be a balance. Some establishments completely ignore noise limits and operate as if residential areas don’t exist nearby.” These residents point out that while tourism isimportant for Goa’s economy, the quality of life for permanent residents cannot be compromised.
The enforcement challenge is also significant, with police often caught between tourist establishments and complaining residents. “We receive multiple noise complaints every night, especially during peak tourist season,” said a senior police official. “The current situation creates tension between different sections of society, and we need clearer guidelines that can be practically implemented.”
At the end of the day, those in favour have called for balancing this situation and identifying areas where music is allowed to be extended from 10 pm, maybe till 12 am or at least 11 pm. The growing political consensus suggests that some form of revision to the current restrictions may be on the horizon, with the government actively exploring the possibility of permitting music events to continue past the existing 10 pm curfew for weddings and tourism purposes, though the final outcome will depend on navigating legal challenges while satisfying both tourism industry interests and residents’ quality of life concerns.