Mumbai: The Karnataka and Maharashtra governments have taken a tough stand on the sound of loudspeakers installed at religious places. In both the states, notices were issued for keeping the sound of loudspeakers within the prescribed limit, saying action would be taken against the violations. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Kamal Pant said that out of the 301 notices, 59 have been issued to pubs, bars and restaurants, 12 to industries, 83 to temples, 22 to churches and 125 to mosques across the city.
KS Eshwarappa, minister in the state government, said there is no competition or contest between Azan of Muslims and Hanuman Chalisa of Hindus through loudspeakers. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the Home Ministry already has a guideline in this regard. The State Home Minister has also issued notices on loudspeakers.
Meanwhile, Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai on Tuesday said that all are equal before the government and loudspeakers of mosques will not be forcibly removed. Recently, Karnataka Home Minister Araga Jnanendra ordered the state police to take cognizance of the loudspeaker issue and implement the high court's order on noise. However, he has given this direction not only in relation to Azan but also about the action on the noisy buses.
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