Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Jul 19: A fresh report by Amicus Curiae Nigel da Costa Frias to the Bombay High Court at Goa, aimed at curbing noise pollution, has reignited public anger over repeated failure by authorities to enforce existing laws and court orders.

The report recommends flying squads, CCTV surveillance, enforcement of decibel limits, and penal action. But many of these are not new and reflect longstanding directives under existing legal frameworks like the Noise Pollution Rules, 2000 and the Madhya Pradesh Control of Music and Noises Act, which Goa follows in the absence of its own law.

Local residents say the real problem is the consistent failure to act. “Everything listed already exists,” said Anjuna resident Jawish Moniz. “But police and local bodies dodge action — either complaints are delayed or violators are tipped off.”

In nightlife hubs like Vagator and Morjim, citizens allege that police warn clubs in advance of inspections, leading to mock compliance. “The music stops just in time, and police report that all is normal,” a resident said.

Repeated offenders often escape punishment. “Some clubs have been booked multiple times. Still, no arrests, no jail. They reopen the next day,” said Dr Inacio Fernandes from Anjuna. Residents call it a cycle of tokenism, with authorities sealing clubs one night, only for them to operate the next.

Many point to political links and financial stakes behind the inaction. “These clubs earn crores. There’s slush money involved, and no one wants to act against them,” said a local.

A former member of the Goa State Pollution Control Board stressed that accountability is missing. “More laws won’t help. Until officers face consequences and violators go to jail, nothing will change,” he said.

Some citizens now call for judicial oversight through court-appointed officers. “We need someone neutral we can approach when the system fails,” said a Calangute resident.

As the High Court weighs the amicus report, citizens hope this time the court’s orders will go beyond paperwork and finally break the cycle of violations and impunity.