Raichur bans high-decibel DJ systems during Ganesh festival, threatens equipment seizure

The Raichur district administration has imposed a complete prohibition on high-decibel DJ systems, banjos, and drums from September 14 to October 04 during the Ganesha festival. Deputy Commissioner Poovitha S. announced the restrictions in a note released on Sunday, making it clear that violators would face immediate confiscation of their sound equipment.

Permission mandatory for public loudspeaker use

"Obtaining prior permission from the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police is mandatory for using loudspeakers in public places," the Deputy Commissioner stated. Sound systems would be confiscated immediately if found being used without permission, she warned.

The administration has placed an outright ban on large sound systems projecting sound beyond 500 metres. According to Rule 5(3) of the Noise Pollution Rules, 2000, loudspeaker use is completely prohibited between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m..

Supreme Court precedents cited

Deputy Commissioner Poovitha S. highlighted the Supreme Court's ruling in Church of God in India vs. KKR Majestic Colony, noting that noise pollution cannot be permitted during religious celebrations. She also referenced the Forum, Prevention of Environmental & Sound Pollution v. Union of India, 2005 case, reaffirming the strict enforcement of nighttime noise restrictions.

FIRs to be filed on health complaints

In response to public complaints regarding health impacts on infants, elderly residents, and patients, the police would lodge FIRs under Section 270 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and the Noise Pollution Rules against violators. Sections 36 and 37 would be invoked to seize illegal DJ systems, and negligent station officers would face departmental action, she said.

The public can lodge a complaint by calling 112.

Source: The Hindu