GFP demands relaxation of noise rules for religious festivals

The Goa Forward Party has written a letter to the Election Commission of India (ECI) seeking relaxation of the Noise Pollution Rules during traditional religious activities.

Goa Deputy Chief Minister and GFP chief Vijai Sardesai said in the letter that ECI's flying squads had stopped Shigmo festival celebrations recently, and the same should not happen during the ongoing Lent season observed by Christians.

"Traditional religious activities have attracted action under the Noise Pollution Rules, especially after 10 pm from the flying squads....Hence, there is apprehension that religious activities during the Lent Season and Easter Vigil Services will also attract similar action," he said.

All traditional religious activities be exempted from these restrictions, he demanded, saying they did not hinder the election process.