Nagpur HC Rejects Mosque’s Plea for Loudspeaker Use, Says No Religion Mandates Prayers Through Amplifiers

The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has refused to grant permission to a mosque in Gondia district to use loudspeakers for prayers, ruling that the use of amplifying devices is not an essential religious practice and cannot be claimed as a matter of right.

A division bench of Justices Anil Pansare and Raj Wakode dismissed a petition filed by Masjid Gousiya seeking relief after local authorities denied approval for the installation of loudspeakers. In its order dated December 1, the bench noted that the petitioner had failed to establish that using loudspeakers was mandatory or necessary for practising their faith.

“The petitioner is not entitled to seek relief for the installation of a loudspeaker as of right. The petition is accordingly dismissed,” the court stated.

‘No Religion Mandates Use of Amplifiers’: Court Cites Supreme Court Rulings

The judges relied heavily on established Supreme Court judgments, reiterating that no religion prescribes offering prayers through voice amplifiers or beating drums, particularly when it may disturb others.

The court emphasised that the right to practise religion must be balanced with the rights of other citizens, especially children, the elderly, the sick, and those sensitive to noise. “No religion prescribes that prayers should be performed by disturbing the peace of others,” the bench observed.

Noise Pollution a ‘Serious Threat’, Says Bench

Taking suo motu cognisance of the recurring issue of noise pollution, the court urged the Maharashtra government to devise an effective framework to curb violations. It highlighted the harmful effects of excessive sound, noting that noise pollution triggers the “fight or flight” response by releasing cortisol and other stress chemicals into the bloodstream.

“Over time, these chemicals lead to multiple health issues including cardiovascular disease, chronic fatigue, headaches, high blood pressure, mental illness, and anxiety,” the bench said, adding that exposure to noise above 120 decibels can cause eardrum damage.

Violations at Event Halls, Religious Places Flagged

The judges also pointed out frequent violations of noise rules at event halls in Nagpur’s Civil Lines area during celebrations and festivities. They stressed that venues must ensure compliance with noise regulations while hosting functions.

Similarly, the court noted that several religious places routinely conduct ‘bhajans’ and other activities on loudspeakers in complete disregard for prescribed limits.

Court Urges Govt to Act

Concluding the order, the bench expressed hope that the state would address the issue urgently: “We hope the state government will be sensitive to the issue involved, which affects public health, and will come up with an effective solution.”

The ruling adds to the ongoing nationwide debate over the use of loudspeakers in religious and public spaces, with courts repeatedly underscoring the need to safeguard citizens’ right to a peaceful environment.