Walse Patil said, “The Supreme Court had ordered on the use of loudspeakers in public places in 2005. So, it is best if it is decided by the Centre, so it can be implemented by all the states.” The minister said the state parties should take a delegation to meet the central leaders and take a decision. Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde said the issue would be discussed in the cabinet this week. The MVA leadership’s comments, reportedly aimed at sidelining the communally sensitive issue, made no reference to the Centre’s existing Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) rules, which provide the framework for government proposals in the state.
When asked about MNS’ aggressive stand, Walse Patil said, “The law does not provide for the state to install or remove loudspeakers. It is important that those who have installed loudspeakers take adequate care.” He also emphasized that the law should be applicable to all and separate rules cannot be made for a specific community. “Any change in the rules for loudspeakers for azaan will have an impact on the loudspeakers used in rural festivals and gatherings as well as in festivals like Ganapati and Navratri.”
MNS chief Raj Thackeray stayed away from the all-party meeting to discuss the issue, but sent party leaders. MNS said that its demand to remove loudspeakers from mosques by May 3 remains. MNS’s Bala Nandgaonkar said, “The ultimatum given by Raj Thackeray has not been withdrawn.” The BJP boycotted this meeting. when asked about BJP Boycotting the meeting, Walse Patil said, “We had invited the BJP. I will ask why they did not come. It would be better if they attend as it will help clear any misunderstandings within the public.”
The minister said that the police will implement the existing law on loudspeakers. “The Supreme Court has laid down the guidelines and the state has issued government resolutions. These will be implemented by the police,” he said. Under the existing rules, loudspeakers or public address systems cannot be used in public places without the written permission of the authorities. And except in closed auditoriums, such use is not permitted between 10 pm and 6 am. Any exception to the 10pm rule can be allowed for a maximum of 15 days in a year, and that too only till midnight.
Walse Patil said that he will again consult the police regarding the rules for loudspeakers and their implementation. In the past, the state has designated various areas of Mumbai as silent, residential, commercial and industrial zones with specific decibel limits for each category. These designations will continue to be valid. For example, in a quiet area—less than 100 meters around hospitals, educational institutions and courts—authorities are responsible for ensuring that noise levels do not exceed prescribed limits.