Bombay HC raises Maharashtra noise pollution case:Said, “We are against noise, not any religion or festival”; seeks guidelines from the state govt

The Bombay High Court held a hearing after taking suo motu notice of the rising noise pollution in Maharashtra. The court said it was not against any religion or festival. Its only concern was the noise generated during festivals and public events. A bench of Justice GS Kulkarni and Justice Neela Gokhale expressed concern over the noise generated by DJs, sound systems and loudspeakers. The bench scheduled the next hearing in the case for Tuesday. The High Court directed the state’s Advocate General, Milind Sathe, to provide information on the rules related to noise pollution. He was also asked to clarify whether these rules were being followed during idol immersion processions. Information sought on compliance with rules The High Court asked how the prescribed rules on noise pollution were being followed. The court also sought information on whether guidelines had been framed regarding the prescribed noise levels and whether they were being effectively enforced. The High Court further sought details of the action being taken against those violating the law. ​