Taking permission for loudspeaker usage is mandatory: Raichur DC

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Deputy Commissioner of Raichur Poovitha S. chairing a review meeting in Raichur on Sunday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

​Raichur Deputy Commissioner Poovitha S. has issued strict directions restricting high-decibel DJ systems, banjos, and drums from September 14 to October 04 for the Ganesha festival.

“Obtaining prior permission from the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police is mandatory for using loudspeakers in public places,” she added.

In a note released on Sunday, the Deputy Commissioner said sound systems would be confiscated immediately if found being used without permission. Large sound systems projecting sound beyond 500 metres are strictly banned, she said.

As per Rule 5(3) of the Noise Pollution Rules, 2000, loudspeaker use is completely prohibited between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

The Deputy Commissioner highlighted the Supreme Court’s ruling, noting that noise pollution cannot be permitted during religious celebrations (Church of God in India vs. KKR Majestic Colony), reaffirming the strict enforcement of nighttime noise restrictions (Forum, Prevention of Environmental & Sound Pollution v. Union of India, 2005).

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.

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