CM Yogi Adityanath Orders Permanent Action Against Loudspeakers at Religious Places

In a landmark move, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has directed authorities to take permanent action against the use of loudspeakers at religious places. This directive aims to strictly regulate noise pollution, ensuring that loudspeakers and high-volume sound systems are used only within prescribed legal limits.

The decision comes ahead of Holi celebrations, a festival often accompanied by high-decibel music and DJ sound systems. CM Yogi has explicitly ordered a complete prohibition of unauthorized loudspeakers and DJs to prevent disturbances in residential areas, hospitals, and educational institutions.

A Stricter Reinforcement of Noise Pollution Laws

The Uttar Pradesh government has long been working on controlling noise pollution caused by loudspeakers at religious places. In 2022, the administration conducted a major drive that resulted in the removal of over 54,000 loudspeakers from religious sites. This time, CM Yogi wants to ensure that such measures remain permanent.

According to government officials, the main objectives behind the directive include:

• Preventing excessive noise pollution in urban and rural areas.
• Ensuring religious activities do not disturb public peace.
• Strictly implementing Supreme Court noise control rulings.
• Avoiding communal tensions by enforcing uniform rules for all religions.

This renewed crackdown means that all religious institutions must comply with the law or face penalties.

What the New Guidelines Say

Under CM Yogi’s new directive, the following rules must be followed:

• Loudspeakers must not exceed prescribed decibel levels as per Supreme Court regulations.
• Religious institutions must obtain official permission before using loudspeakers.
• No sound should extend beyond the premises of the religious site.
• Strict legal action will be taken against violators, including fines and possible seizures of equipment.
• Holi celebrations cannot include high-volume DJs or speakers beyond the permitted time limits.

The UP government has instructed all district magistrates and police commissioners to actively monitor religious sites and take action if rules are violated.

Public Reactions: Mixed Responses from Religious Leaders and Citizens

The new directive has triggered mixed reactions from different communities:

• Supporters argue that excessive noise pollution disturbs students, patients, and the elderly.
• Many believe that religious freedom should not infringe on public peace.

• Opponents claim that this action limits religious expression, particularly in mosques, temples, churches, and gurudwaras.
• Certain religious leaders have demanded more clarity on the legal framework to ensure unbiased implementation.

However, the government has assured that this action applies equally to all religious places, ensuring no discrimination.

Legal Justification: Supreme Court Rulings on Noise Pollution

CM Yogi’s decision is based on multiple Supreme Court judgments that have upheld noise pollution control measures:

• 2005: The Supreme Court ruled that noise pollution laws apply to all religious places.
• 2018: The Court reaffirmed restrictions on loudspeaker usage, stating that religious freedom does not include the right to disturb others.
  2022: UP government removed thousands of illegal loudspeakers, following strict Supreme Court orders.

By permanently enforcing these rules, the UP government aims to bring long-term peace and noise control across the state.

Impact on Religious Gatherings and Festivals

• Holi and Diwali Celebrations: DJs and loudspeakers heavily restricted.
• Mosques and Temples: Azan and bhajans must follow noise regulations.
• Churches and Gurudwaras: Prayer services must adhere to prescribed decibel limits.

Authorities have emphasized that these rules apply equally to all religious groups, preventing any communal bias.

Penalties for Violators

• First Offense: Warning issued.
• Repeated Violations: Loudspeakers confiscated, and fines up to ₹50,000 imposed.
• Serious Violations: Criminal cases registered against violators.

District authorities have been ordered to conduct surprise inspections at religious sites to ensure compliance.

Political Reactions and Opposition’s Stand

• Samajwadi Party (SP) and Congress have accused the Yogi government of using this issue politically.
• Opposition leaders argue that the government should focus on infrastructure and employment rather than loudspeakers.
• Certain religious organizations have filed petitions questioning the directive’s fairness.

Despite criticism, CM Yogi remains firm, stating that law enforcement must prioritize noise control over political concerns.

Looking Forward: A Bold Yet Controversial Move

CM Yogi Adityanath’s permanent action against loudspeakers marks a major shift in UP’s noise pollution control efforts. The move is:

• Legally justified, following Supreme Court rulings.
• Politically debated, with opposition questioning motives.
• Welcomed by many citizens, especially students and elderly residents.
• Criticized by some religious leaders, demanding more clarity.

As strict enforcement continues, the success of this initiative will depend on fair implementation across all religious communities.

By – Nikita