Amidst its ongoing criticism of the ruling BJP in Goa regarding the Sunburn dance and music festival, the AAP escalated its stance on Friday, asserting that the influx of tourists attending the event was tarnishing the state's reputation. Amit Palekar, the Goa AAP unit chief, emphasized that the state had incurred losses due to the Sunburn festival, which sparked controversy over an alleged display of an image of Lord Shiva.
Amit Palekar commented on the situation, stating, "The Sunburn organizers are saying that this was their last event in Goa, whereas, in reality, the Goa government had always given wrong support to them. In return, Goa has only suffered losses. Instead of bringing good tourists to Goa, tourists coming for the event are creating a bad reputation for the state."
The popular electronic dance music festival unfolded from December 28 to December 30 in Vagator, North Goa, attracting thousands of attendees. Last week, Palekar had called for action against the event organizers, asserting that images of Lord Shiva were presented in a derogatory manner, particularly objecting to such images being showcased at an event where alcohol was served.
Expressing concern over the perceived insult to "Sanatan Dharma," Palekar had urged Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to promptly file an FIR against the Sunburn organizers. Subsequently, Congress leader Vijay Bhike filed a police complaint at Mapusa police station, contending that the organizers deliberately offended the religious sentiments of Hindus by suggesting that Lord Shiva endorsed activities like alcohol consumption and the use of prohibited substances during the event.
