December 21, 2024: The Kerala High Court has ruled to cancel the much-anticipated Sunburn music festival, which was scheduled to take place in Wayanad on New Year’s Eve. The decision comes after local residents raised concerns about illegal construction and environmental risks at the festival venue.

The court's intervention follows a petition filed by residents from the area, who cited the ongoing illegal construction at 'Boche 1000 Acres' in Meppadi, Wayanad. The location, situated in a landslide-prone region, had already been flagged for soil extraction and illegal plantation land conversion, raising significant safety and environmental concerns.

In response to the legal challenge, Wayanad’s District Collector, who also heads the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), had previously issued a directive halting the festival. The Collector highlighted the risks posed by construction activities near the site, which could further destabilize the region’s already fragile terrain.

The Sunburn festival, organized by Boche Bhumiputra Private Limited—a company owned by businessman Boby Chemmanur—had drawn attention due to its association with a location suspected of unauthorized development. Two senior citizens had filed a complaint with the authorities, underscoring the potential dangers posed by the venue’s unsafe conditions.

In light of the ruling, the much-anticipated festival, which draws thousands of music lovers every year, will not be taking place in the landslide-hit district. Authorities are now expected to focus on addressing the safety concerns raised by the residents, who remain concerned about the environmental impact of such events in sensitive areas.

The cancellation of the festival underscores the ongoing tension between large-scale commercial events and the preservation of vulnerable ecosystems, with local authorities now prioritizing the safety and well-being of the community in Wayanad.