The Mumbai Police have removed loudspeakers from around 1,500 places of worship across the city and its suburbs, citing orders from the Bombay High Court and directions from the Maharashtra government.
The action, which has sparked both support and concern, included temples, mosques, churches, and other religious sites, according to Police Commissioner Devin Bharti. He said that the move was not aimed at any single community.
“The followers of any religion are not being targeted,” Bharti told the media. “Police have taken action against the loudspeakers installed in places of worship of all religions.”
The Commissioner said the decision followed public complaints, legal directives, and consultations with political, social, and religious leaders. “The public and the responsible persons of the places of worship were taken into confidence,” Bharti added, noting that prior discussions were held to explain the legal basis for the action.
Bharti further said that the removed loudspeakers cannot be reinstalled. “Only during religious festivals, and that too after applying, permission will be given to use loudspeakers temporarily as per the noise pollution law,” he said.
The campaign follows rising political attention on the issue of loudspeaker use—especially from mosques. BJP leader Kirt Soumya, who has publicly campaigned for the removal of mosque loudspeakers, claimed that “loudspeakers were removed from several mosques on Sunday.”
However, Bharti reiterated that the action was impartial and carried out across communities. “Loudspeakers have been removed from all communities’ places of worship—not just mosques,” he said.
Despite police assurances, the move has drawn mixed reactions. While some have welcomed the reduction in noise pollution, others—particularly within the Muslim community—feel the measure disproportionately affects mosque prayers, including the early morning Azaan.
Mumbai Police say they will continue enforcing the High Court’s orders and ensure compliance with noise control regulations.
