No stoppage of music at weddings/events over copyright claims: CM

PANAJI: The Goa government has stepped in to prevent disruptions at weddings and social functions, making it clear that hotels and event venues cannot stop music or demand payments based on copyright claims by private agencies such as PPL and Novex.

Replying to a Calling Attention motion moved by Fatorda MLA and GFP chief Vijai Sardesai today, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant told the Assembly that hotels will be instructed not to halt music or make payments when approached by such agencies.

“Hotels and event venues in Goa cannot stop music or demand payments over copyright claims. Any objections must be referred to the police, and no direct payments should be made. We will issue instructions to all hotels,” Sawant said.

The Chief Minister added that the government will take up the matter with the Union Ministry of Commerce, seeking relief in line with a Gujarat High Court order and working towards a permanent solution.

Raising the issue, Sardesai said agencies like PPL and Novex were allegedly disrupting weddings and social gatherings despite clear legal exemptions.

“The law already provides exemptions for such events, and it must be strictly implemented. The government needs mandatory guidelines to prevent misuse and protect Goa’s tourism and event ecosystem. A clear-cut announcement is needed,” he said.

Sardesai cited Section 52(1)(za) of the Copyright Act, 1957, which exempts musical performances during bona fide religious or official ceremonies, including weddings, from copyright liability.

“A statutory exemption must be enforced, clear directions must be given to enforcement authorities, and action should be taken against PPL and Novex for unlawful interference. This is extortion,” he added.

In its written reply, the government reiterated the legal exemption and said the police would verify the actions of these agencies. The issue will also be taken up with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Registrar of Copyright to ensure proper enforcement.