EDMs necessary for Goa but drug use should be checked: Naik

Senior Congress leader Shantaram Naik today said the popular Electronic Dance Music (EDM) festivals are necessary for Goa's tourism, but the use of narcotics in them should be checked.
He said such festivals are a source of income for the tourist state, but drugs activity in such events or around it, should be stringently dealt with.
"When such festivals are held, the police machinery should be stringent. I was told many of those who come from outside to attend these EMDs fests are the ones who indulge in drugs," Naik told a press conference here.
Earlier, state minister Vinod Palyekar had expressed concern over such events being held in Goa, which has over the past few years has become a popular destination for EMDs and other entertainment fests.

"I share his (Palyekar's) concern because he is concerned about the cases of drug abuse that take place during EDM festivals. Goa being a tourist state and since we are concern with some income, EDMs are necessary," he said.
Meanwhile, on the shifting of NGT (National Green Tribunal) jurisdiction of Goa from Pune to Delhi, Naik slammed Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar for the move.

"NGT bench was shifted to Delhi some days back. After two-three days, the chief minister came out with a statement that he has done it. It appears that government is inclined towards having a circuit bench (of NGT) in Goa," Naik said.

"I would like to know when was the decision taken. This is a subject of crucial nature and I would like to know whether (a) cabinet decision is taken. It appears that the cabinet was kept in dark and recommendation was made to shift the jurisdiction," he said.
Naik said his party would welcome the decision to have a circuit bench (in Goa) but the demand should be to establish an independent bench in the state.