Special squad likely to monitor, enforce SC norms on loudspeakers in Maharashtra

A special squad is likely to monitor and enforce Supreme Court norms on loudspeakers in Maharashtra. Earlier, MNS chief Raj Thackeray had demanded that loudspeakers at mosques relaying azaan (prayers) be removed by May 3 or else his party would play the Hanuman Chalisa at higher volumes to counter them.

Maharashtra Director General of Police on Tuesday instructed officials to enforce the law and Supreme Court guidelines on the loudspeaker issue strictly. The decision was taken after Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) demanded the removal of loudspeakers from mosques.

Following the controversy around loudspeakers, Mumbai Police carried out a survey at mosques in the city. They found that around 70 per cent of mosques are not using loudspeakers or use them at low volume for azaan early morning around 5 am. As per Supreme Court guidelines, use of loudspeakers is not allowed from 10 pm to 6 am.

DGP then instructed unit commanders to allow loudspeakers between 6 am and 10 pm with prior permission from the police, and asked them to strictly abide by the Supreme Court's guidelines as well as the noise pollution norms laid down by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB).

READ | We are against loudspeakers, not any religion, says MNS a day after Nashik cops' directive

Besides, a special squad is likely to be formed to monitor noise levels from loudspeakers. Mumbai Police is also preparing to prevent any law and order issue. They will collect information on people who have been charged with creating communal tensions. Instructions have been given for taking preventive action.

Police will be monitoring those who give inflammatory speeches and take action if necessary. Social media posts are also being monitored for hate content.

Last week, Mumbai Police held a meeting with religious leaders from different communities.