Kolkata police restricts use of loudspeakers, drums on Muharram; Asks to adhere to Noise Pollution rules

Kolkata Police has issued a significant notification regarding noise restrictions during the upcoming Muharram festivities on July 6, 2025. In compliance with an order from the Hon'ble High Court, Calcutta, the police have strictly mandated that the use of loudspeakers, microphones, beating of drums, and any open-air amplification of sound will only be permitted as per the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2010. This directive underscores the authorities' commitment to ensuring public peace and adherence to environmental regulations during religious celebrations.

The notification, issued under the authority of Manoj Kumar Verma, Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, who also serves as an Executive Magistrate for the Metropolitan area of Kolkata and parts of South 24 Parganas, explicitly states that any person contravening this order will face prosecution as per existing laws. This stern warning aims to deter any violations and ensure strict compliance across the city and its suburban areas falling under Kolkata Police jurisdiction.

The order is a direct consequence of the Hon'ble High Court's ruling in the matter of W.P.A.(P) 369 of 2022 Miss Shagufta Sulaiman Vs. The State of West Bengal & Ors. This legal directive highlights the judiciary's proactive role in addressing concerns related to noise pollution, particularly during large public gatherings and festivals. The police's notification is a procedural step to implement this judicial mandate effectively.

Furthermore, the notification reiterates adherence to existing environmental regulations and previous orders passed by various government bodies. It references Notification No. EN/3346/T-IV-6/0001/2007 dated 29th December, 2009, issued by the Environment Department, Government of West Bengal, and other directives from the West Bengal Pollution Control Board. This layered approach emphasizes the comprehensive legal framework guiding noise control measures.

The Officers-in-Charge of all concerned Police Stations have been instructed to remain vigilant and ensure that the orders of the High Court, the Environment Department, Government of West Bengal, and the West Bengal Pollution Control Board are duly complied with within their respective jurisdictions. This departmental directive ensures a decentralized yet synchronized enforcement mechanism across Kolkata's police divisions.