The Karnataka State Board of Wakfs recently issued a new circular to prevent noise pollution in the state. The new orders prohibits the use of loudspeakers from 10 pm to 6 am.
Religious Premises Are Exempted From Ban
As per the latest reports, the Karnataka State Board of Wakfs issued a circular which prohibits people from using loudspeakers. Even during the ‘azaan’ or the Islamic call for ritual prayers aren’t allowed to use the speakers. The circular stated that the aim is to keep the noise pollution in check and will be regulated as per the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
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But the circular also mentions that loudspeakers can be used to make important announcements like sighting of moon, death, etc. At the same time, religious and socio-cultural and knowledge based functions can use loudspeakers.
The circular said that it has been observed that there has been an increase in the noise levels around many masjids and dargahs because of the generator sets and loudspeakers. This had led to serious effects on human health and the psychological well-being of the people living around.
Circular Marks Silent Zones
Apart from prohibiting the loud speakers, the circular has marked some areas as the silent zones. The areas which aren’t less than one hundred meters from hospitals, courts and educational institutions have been declared as the silent zones.
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The circular clarified that anyone who uses loudspeakers or fire crackers in the silent zones will be penalised under the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Allahabad University Asks For Loudspeaker Ban
This isn’t the first time when people have felt disturbed by the public use of loudspeakers. Earlier today, the Vice Chancellor of the Allahabad University, Sangeeta Srivastava also wrote a letter to the district magistrate to restrict the use of loudspeakers for azaan.
In the letter she said that the use of loudspeakers disturbs the sleep of the people and hampers work efficiency. She said that every morning at 5:30 am her sleep gets disturbed because of the Azaan done on the mike. This further leads to headache and loss of working hours throughout the day.
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She also clarifies that she isn’t against any religion, caste or creed. But it would be better if Azaan is performed without mikes so others don’t get disturbed. She then quoted that during Eid as well, they announce Sehri at 4:00 am which disturbs sleep as well.
