Noise pollution rules apply equally to Ganesh Chaturthi and Eid celebrations: Bombay High Court

The Bombay High Court emphasized that if the use of loudspeakers and sound systems beyond permissible noise levels is harmful during the Ganesh festival, the same applies to Eid processions.

A division bench, led by Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar, made this observation while hearing a group of public interest litigations (PILs) requesting a ban on high-decibel "DJs," "dance," and "laser lights" during Eid processions.

The PILs urged the court to instruct civic authorities and police to restrict permissions for such noise-emitting sound systems. The petitioners argued that neither the Quran nor Hadith advocates the use of DJ systems or laser lights for religious celebrations.

In response, the court referenced its previous ruling issued ahead of the Ganesh festival, which upheld the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, stressing a ban on loudspeakers exceeding permissible decibel levels during public festivals. The court clarified that the ruling applied to all festivals, including Eid, stating, "If it is harmful for Ganesh Chaturthi, it is harmful for Eid also."

Regarding laser lights, the court asked petitioners to provide scientific evidence proving their harmful effects on humans. The bench stressed that proper research is essential before filing such petitions, as courts rely on facts to adjudicate matters effectively.

The judges urged petitioners to assist the court with relevant information, adding, "We are not experts. We do not know the 'L' of laser." The PILs were subsequently dismissed.