E-Paper
Kho-kho body asks HC to allow it to use loudspeakers at Shivaji Park
The Maharashtra Kho-Kho Association moved the Bombay High Court on Friday seeking permission to use loudspeakers at Shivaji Park in Dadar during National Senior Kho-Kho Championship to be held from May 16.
The Maharashtra Kho-Kho Association moved the Bombay High Court on Friday seeking permission to use loudspeakers at Shivaji Park in Dadar during National Senior Kho-Kho Championship to be held from May 16.
A division bench of Justice R. M. Sawant and Justice Mridula Bhatkar posted the petition for hearing on Saturday. The bench directed the association to serve a notice to Wacom Trust, which filed a public interest litigation (PIL) pertaining to the ground.
In the PIL filed by Wacom Trust, the high court had, on May 6, ordered Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to take steps to declare Shivaji Park a “silence zone” under Pollution Control Regulations, 2000.
The high court also banned use of loudspeakers at the ground, which is a popular venue for political rallies.
The high court had, however, made an exception only for three days - December 6 (death anniversary of Dr Ambedkar), May 1 (Maharashtra-state foundation day) and on Republic Day.
The association earlier sought permission from the Shivaji Park police to use loud speakers during the tournament.
They, however, were turned down by the police station on May 12. The very next day the association moved an application before the Commissioner of Police, who also rejected their request in the wake of the high court order.
The Kho-Kho association stated in its petition that 16 teams of senior players were participating in the national sporting event, which will conclude on May 20. It has contended that the use of loudspeakers was essential for a running commentary and creating an appropriate environment for the game.
The relaxation has been sought for the two-day centenary celebrations of the legendary escape of Veer Savarkar from the Andaman jail. The state government has been given time till May 17 to file their affidavit.
Stay updated with all the Breaking News and Latest News from Mumbai. Click here for comprehensive coverage of top Cities including Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, and more across India along with Stay informed on the latest happenings in World News.
