In Agra, Uttar Pradesh, a campaign has been launched to dismount unauthorized loudspeakers from places of worship in preparation for Ramadan. This has been done in an attempt to curb noise pollution and force obedience to sound levels as stated in the law. In the area of Quarsi police station, 26 loudspeakers were dismounted and the level of 32 others was modified. Likewise, in the Civil Lines sector, 68 loudspeakers were removed, and 57 were altered to comply with sound regulations. Moreover, 18 loudspeakers were withdrawn in the Jawaan police station sector. More CCTV cameras will be installed by the authorities to increase public surveillance as well as ensure law and order. Clerical leaders and cyber volunteers have been requested to create awareness among their people to facilitate peace and order.
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This step follows earlier initiatives in the area to curb noise pollution from religious complexes. For example, at Mathura, the Shahi Idgah mosque management voluntarily took down one loudspeaker and reduced the decibel of two others employed for announcing the ‘azaan’ (call to prayer) so that the noise will not bother anyone.
The use of loudspeakers in religious establishments has been subject to legal examination in India. In July 2005, the Supreme Court prohibited the use of loudspeakers and music systems between 10 PM and 6 AM (save during public emergencies) in public areas, on the grounds of severe impacts of noise pollution on the health of people.
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These steps are indicative of continued attempts to reconcile religious observances with public health issues and legal controls over noise pollution.
