Karnataka CM asks officials to strictly implement SC order on loudspeakers

Karnataka Chief Minister Bommai has asked the officials to strictly implement the SC order on loudspeakers, amid calls for removal of loudspeakers from mosques by Sri Rama Sene activists.

Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Monday directed officials to strictly implement the Supreme Court order on the use of loudspeakers. This comes amid calls by Sri Rama Sene activists to play morning prayers and Hanuman Chalisa on loudspeakers at temples, if the government fails to act against loudspeakers in mosques.

Bommai said, " The SC order is already in place and it is applicable to all. We have to implement this in an equitable manner. We are keeping track of what's happening in other states (row over azaan). The high court has already given a ruling on how to implement the SC order. I have given instructions that the orders have to be thoroughly followed."

Earlier today, Sri Rama Sene activists played 'suprabhata’ rhymes at around 5 am on loudspeakers at Diddi Hanuman Temple, Old Hubli.

Sene founder Pramod Muthalik said that activists would intensify their protest if the state government fails to act against loudspeakers in mosques.

READ | FIR registered against 2 Mumbai mosques for violating SC guidelines on loudspeakers

Reacting to the calls for the removal of loudspeakers from mosques, Education Minister BC Nagesh said nobody has the right to take rules into their hands and all must follow the SC order.

" The government is very serious and has instructed all SPs. Many have already cooperated and removed loudspeakers. This is a long demand and it will be solved. The responsibility of the government is to follow SC orders," he said.