'If loudspeaker use harmful during Ganeshotsav, same for Eid': HC
The Bombay High Court on Wednesday stated that if the use of loudspeakers and sound systems beyond permissible noise levels was harmful during the Ganesh festival, it also has the same effect during the Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi processions. This observation was made by a division bench comprising Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar. They were hearing a series of public interest litigations (PILs) seeking bans on use of "DJs," "dance" and "laser lights" during Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi celebrations.
PILs seek restrictions on Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi celebrations
The PILs argued that neither the Quran nor the Hadith (holy books) mandates the use of DJ systems and laser lights for these celebrations. The petitions also called upon civic bodies and police to withhold permission for high-decibel sound systems during these events. In response, the bench cited an order issued last month ahead of the Ganesh festival.
Court refers to previous order on noise pollution
In this order, the court underscored a ban on sound systems and loudspeakers emitting noise beyond permissible limits as specified under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. The petitioners' advocate, Owais Pechkar, requested that Eid be included in this earlier order. However, the bench clarified that such an addition was unnecessary as "public festivals" were already covered.
Court seeks scientific evidence on laser lights
Regarding the use of laser lights, the bench asked petitioners to provide scientific evidence of their harmful effects on humans. "Why didn't you do your research? How do we adjudicate such an issue unless it is proved scientifically that it causes harm?" the bench questioned. It further stated that petitioners should assist courts in giving effective directions by conducting basic research beforehand. "We do not know the 'L' of laser," the bench added.
