Goa deputy Chief Minister and Goa Forward Party (GFP) chief Vijai Sardesai Monday requested the Election Commission to exempt traditional religious activities from the scope of a sound ban deadline during the Lent season, which is observed by Christians.
For the community, Lent is a season of grief that necessarily ends with a great celebration of Easter, which falls on April 21 this year.
"Goa Forward Party will request the Election Commission to exempt traditional religious activities in Goa from sound ban under the Noise Pollution Rules," Sardesai twitted on Monday evening.
He also said that all religions should come in the ambit of this exemption.
"This is relevant due to ongoing Lenten Season and pre Easter services," he tweeted.
The Lent season which began on March 6 will end on April 18, followed by Good Friday and the Easter.
When contacted, Additional Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Narayan Sawant said the matter would be taken up before district election officials.
"We will issue directions asking the officials to ensure that traditional religious activities are not disturbed. The religious activities don't disturb the election process and hence, we will ensure that they are also not disturbed," he commented.
A sound ban is not imposed under the model code of conduct, but under the Noise Pollution Act norms loud speakers are not allowed after 10 PM.
Elections to two Lok Sabha constituencies and bypolls to three assembly segments will be held on April 23.
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