Recently, the Indore administration of Madhya Pradesh made a huge move by taking down more than 400 loudspeakers from various religious sites in the city.

Indore administration
Image Source: Indore

Muslim religious leaders who disagree with the decision have voiced their disapproval of this action. Up to 437 loudspeakers were taken down from 258 religious places in the city, including gurudwaras, mosques, and temples, throughout the previous 48 hours.

Harmonizing Noise Regulations: Indore Administration's Decisive Action

The removal was completed following the state government's directives. In the past, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had issued an order prohibiting DJs and loudspeakers at religious events and public gatherings if the volume was beyond the designated limitations. This decision was taken in compliance with the terms of the Noise Control Act, Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, and the guidelines given by the Supreme Court and the High Court.

Mohammad Ishrat Ali, the Shahar Qazi of Indore, led a delegation that met with Ashish Singh, the Indore Collector, to voice their concerns on the removal of loudspeakers. They insisted that, following the Supreme Court's instructions, loudspeakers be permitted in places of worship as long as they stay under the acceptable noise limit.

Indore administration
Image Source:
SCC Online

Shahar Qazi Ali underlined that all religious locations, including mosques and temples, should be subjected to the same restrictions. Furthermore, he brought up the fact that DJs are frequently the target of complaints regarding loud music played at events and weddings, implying that DJs should be liable to the same limitations.

Collector Ashish Singh explained that the state government's directives were followed to remove the loudspeakers, and everyone is required to follow them. The administration wants to make sure that noise levels stay within reasonable bounds and that various communities live in harmony with one another.

Additionally, the state government established flying squads in each district to keep an eye on loudspeaker usage that is prohibited and noise pollution. It is admirable that the state government is making an effort to reduce noise pollution. A statewide push resulted in the removal of 3,238 loudspeakers, highlighting the significance of maintaining reasonable decibel levels.

The administration’s measures demonstrate a dedication to create a harmonious atmosphere for all people, regardless of their religious affiliations. In India, the noise level outside a public space using public address systems or loudspeakers should not be more than 75 dB (A) or 10 dB (A) above the local ambient noise guidelines. Different noise levels are allowed during the day and at night in different zones (commercial, industrial, and residential).

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