3,367 loudspeakers removed from religious places across Maharashtra: CM Devendra Fadnavis

Indian Express

11-07-2025

Maharashtra Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis Friday informed the state Legislative Assembly that 3,367 loudspeakers have been removed from religious places across the state as part of a statewide initiative to curb noise pollution.
He added that police officers would be held directly responsible if any of the loudspeakers removed were reinstalled without permission.
'In Mumbai alone, 1,608 loudspeakers have been taken down. There are currently no unauthorised loudspeakers at any religious site in the city. I really congratulate Mumbai police for it. The operation was conducted peacefully without causing religious or communal tension. Now there is no question of illegal loudspeakers,' Fadnavis said.
The issue was raised during a discussion in the Assembly by BJP MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar, who flagged the widespread public inconvenience caused by loudspeaker use. He also suggested that 50 per cent of the fine collected from violators should be awarded to the complainant. Responding to this, Fadnavis said, 'The government accepts this suggestion in principle and will consider its implementation.'
The chief minister reiterated that all religious institutions across Maharashtra would be required to follow the rules regarding loudspeaker use. 'If anyone attempts to reinstall a loudspeaker without legal permission, the in-charge of the respective police station will be held accountable,' he warned.
BJP MLA Devyani Pharande called for a year-round ban on loudspeakers at high volumes. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MLA Jitendra Awhad, meanwhile, raised the issue of noise pollution in the Yeoor forest region, stating that illegal loudspeakers had contributed to the disappearance of local wildlife. 'Earlier, leopards could be seen along the roads. Now, even cats are missing,' he said.
In response, Fadnavis assured that both the Forest Department and the police have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of silent zones in forest areas. He also announced that flying squads would be set up under all police commissioners to monitor violations and take immediate action.
In a rare move, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Yuva Sena president Aaditya Thackeray praised Fadnavis for his handling of the loudspeaker issue, stating that the drive was conducted after discussions with all stakeholders.
'I sincerely congratulate the chief minister. He has taken everyone into confidence and ensured that all unauthorised loudspeakers have been removed. There is no doubt about his efforts, and I appreciate it wholeheartedly,' Thackeray said during the Assembly session.
However, with the upcoming festive season—including Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, and Dahi Handi—he raised concerns over the treatment of local festival organisers. He pointed out that despite having valid permissions, many mandals are often harassed by local police stations.
'With festivals approaching, processions will take place. If mandals have all the required permissions and are still troubled by police, will action be taken against those officers?' Aaditya Thackeray asked, addressing the chief minister.