No religion permits noise pollution, says high court

MUMBAI: Though no religion permits the breaking of laws, a flagrant violation of noise pollution rules still continue in the name of religion, the Bombay high court said on Wednesday.

HT Image

The observation came while the division bench of Justice Abhay Oka and Justice Amjad Sayed were hearing several petitions raising concerns over increasing noise pollution and lack of enforcement of Noise Pollution Rules, 2000.

“Notwithstanding several orders by this court, there is large-scale violation of Noise Pollution Rules, especially during religious festivals,” the bench observed.

The court said that noise rules were violated with impunity during political rallies .

“Despite court orders, the state has not taken any steps to enforce the rules,” it said. “There is complete neglect in this regard. Perhaps the executive is not supported by their political bosses.”

One of the PILs had been filed by Thane-based activist, Dr Mahesh Bedekar. He said rules were not complied with during festivals such as Ganeshotsav, Navratri and Dahi Handi. He added that there was a lack of action by authorities, even when complaints were lodged.

Other PILs detailed noise pollution emanating from vehicular traffic, horns, noise crackers and the public celebration of religious festivals.

The bench added that it will continue its judgment on Thursday.