Minister of State for Home directs thorough investigation into the background of Sunburn
Mumbai – Following the unfortunate deaths of youth at ‘music concerts’ in Goregaon and Worli, the state government has has initiated stringent measures. The Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, announced, “The Home Department has decided that alcohol shall not be permitted in any music concert in the state henceforth.” He has also directed officials to investigate the background and operational details of the controversial ‘Sunburn Festival’.
This development follows a recent meeting between Shri, Satish Sonar of the Nasha Mukti Abhiyan (Anti-Addiction Campaign) and Minister Yogesh Kadam, where Shri. Sonar raised serious concerns and demanded strict action against the culprits. During the meeting, the Minister shared insights into the government’s newly revised policy.
Excise Department permissions stayed; Rules to be tightened
Previously, permissions for the sale of alcohol at such music festivals were granted by the State Excise Department, which led to untoward incidents. However, Minister Kadam clarified that the regulations have now been made much stricter, and alcohol consumption will be completely prohibited at all such concerts moving forward.
Merely tightening rules is not enough; Impose a permanent ban – Nasha Mukti Abhiyan
Despite the Minister of State for Home assuring that rules would be tightened, Shri. Satish Sonar of the Nasha Mukti Abhiyan expressed dissatisfaction. Citing the deaths of youth that occurred a few days ago at NESCO in Goregaon and the NSCI Dome in Worli, Shri. Sonar told the Minister of State for Home, “Merely tightening the rules will not suffice. The history of ‘Sunburn’, which has been linked to youth deaths from Goa to Mumbai, is dark. This festival, which pushes the younger generation into the quagmire of addiction through the sheer influence of money, must be permanently banned in Maharashtra.”
Director General of Police directed to investigate
Taking swift note of the demand raised by Shri Satish Sonar, Minister Yogesh Kadam initiated immediate action. He directed the Director General of Police to launch an investigation and take necessary steps. Furthermore, he ordered attending Home Department officials to compile a detailed report on the organisers of ‘Sunburn’, their past events, and their overall operational background.
