Karnataka Waqf Board circular bars loudspeakers in mosques, dargahs from 10 pm to 6 am

The circular said that loudspeakers should be used only for 'azan' and other important announcements

The Karnataka State Wakf Board has prohibited the use of loudspeakers in mosques and dargahs between 10 pm and 6 am.

In a circular, it has specified sound limits for the use of speakers in different zones, while recommending the use of noise-governing apparatus.

In a circular issued recently, the Board directed the management of mosques and dargahs to strictly adhere to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.

“The area comprising not less than 100 metres around hospitals, educational institutions and courts are declared as a silence zone. Whoever uses any sound amplifier, or bursts sound-emitting firecrackers, uses a loudspeaker or public address system in the silence zone is liable for penalty under the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986,” the circular read.

Among the 11 instructions issued to all masjid and dargah committees, loudspeakers are allowed only for Azan and other important announcements such as the sighting of the moon. For congregational prayer ceremonies, speakers should be installed inside the religious premises, the circular said, directing the committees to train mosque staff to operate the loudspeaker within the prescribed sound limit.

The government has not imposed any restrictions on Azan, Wakf Board member Shaafi Saadi tweeted to clarify.

“Under instruction number 3 of the circular, it is clear that loudspeakers can be used for Azan and other announcements,” he said.

The circular has the same directions as issued by the Board in July 2017, Shaafi said, adding that any shortcomings in the circular will be addressed in the next board meeting.