Bombay High Court Blocks Mosque's Loudspeaker Plea, Citing Noise Pollution Concerns

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In a significant ruling, the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has rejected a mosque's plea to use loudspeakers for prayers, emphasizing that no religion mandates the use of voice amplifiers or drums. The court, relying on Supreme Court judgments, noted that the issue of noise pollution is a recurring concern and has asked the Maharashtra government to come up with an effective solution. The court dismissed a petition filed by Masjid Gousiya in Gondia district, citing the petitioner's inability to provide evidence that the use of loudspeakers was necessary to practice their religion. The bench highlighted the importance of reasonable quietness, particularly for vulnerable citizens such as the elderly, sick, and those with mental health issues. Noise pollution, the court noted, poses a serious threat to public health and welfare, causing a range of health problems including cardiovascular disease, anxiety, and hearing damage. The court also pointed out that noise levels exceeding 120 decibels can cause eardrum rupture. The ruling comes amidst concerns over noise pollution in Nagpur, where functions and festivities in event halls often violate noise rules. The court has urged the state government to take a sensitive approach to addressing the issue, which affects public health. The Bombay High Court's decision is seen as a significant step towards addressing noise pollution concerns in India, where the issue has been a recurring problem. The court's emphasis on the importance of reasonable quietness and the need for effective solutions to mitigate noise pollution is likely to have far-reaching implications for public health and welfare.