1608 Loudspeakers Have Been Removed From Religious Sites In Mumbai, 3.3K In Maharashtra, CM Fadnavis Informs State Assembly

Mumbai: In a significant move to tackle noise pollution, a total of 3,367 loudspeakers have been removed from places of worship across Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the state assembly on Friday.

Of these, 1,608 loudspeakers were taken down in Mumbai alone. Fadnavis emphasised that the operation was carried out peacefully and without triggering any religious or communal unrest. According to a news agency PTI report, "Mumbai is now free of loudspeakers at all religious places," he said.

The Chief Minister warned that local police station officials will be held accountable if any loudspeakers are reinstalled without official permission. He announced that "Clear instructions will be issued to ensure legal compliance. Flying squads will be formed under each police commissioner to monitor the situation, "as reported.

The issue was raised during a calling attention motion by multiple MLAs. BJP MLA and former minister Sudhir Mungantiwar highlighted the harmful effects of loudspeakers on communities, while fellow party MLA Devyani Pharande pushed for a year-round ban on high-volume sound systems.

NCP (Sharad Pawar) legislator Jitendra Awhad also expressed concern about noise disturbances in the Yeoor forest area and the negative impact on local wildlife. Responding to this, "No musical instruments or loudspeakers will be allowed in forest areas. The forest department and police have been instructed to strictly enforce this."

In a post on X, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis shared a video highlighting the discussion on noise pollution. He stated that both the Police and the Forest Department have been directed to take necessary action concerning noise levels in the Yeoor forest region.

Fadnavis also mentioned that a discussion will be held with Christian religious leaders regarding granting permission for the Christmas ‘Midnight Mass’ on December 24th, and a final decision will be made after the consultation.