A political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after state minister Jaiveer Singh commented on the use of loudspeakers for Azaan at mosques, saying that religious practices should not disturb others.
Speaking at an event in Firozabad, the Uttar Pradesh minister said that 4 AM is generally a time for sleep and people’s rest was being disturbed by Azaan broadcast through loudspeakers. He stressed that everyone has the right to practice religion, but not in a way that causes inconvenience to others.
“4 AM is the time for sleep, but this was being disrupted due to the Azaan being broadcast over microphones from mosques. Everyone has the right to practice their religion, but no one has the right to disturb others in its name,” Singh said.
Minister ‘Clarifies’ Statement After Political Backlash
The remarks triggered criticism from opposition parties, including leaders from the Samajwadi Party and Congress, who accused the minister of targeting a particular community.
Responding to the criticism, Jaiveer Singh defended his statement and said his comments were not directed against any religion but were about maintaining public convenience and limiting noise pollution.
“Every religion and community has the right to follow its customs and traditions, but no one has the right to force others, interfere in their routine, or trouble people from other faiths,” the minister said.
He added that the Uttar Pradesh government has imposed sound limits equally on all religious places, including temples and mosques, to ensure people are not disturbed.
‘Rules Apply to All Religions’
The minister said the government’s restrictions on loudspeakers and religious events were not based on religion. According to him, rules apply equally to Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians.
“Whether Hindu, Muslim, Sikh or Christian, everyone has the right to organise religious events, but nobody has the right to encroach on public spaces or create disturbance,” he said.
Singh also claimed that the government’s measures had improved public order in the state. He said restrictions on road blockades, loudspeaker use and unapproved religious gatherings have reduced inconvenience for the public.
“Today, roads are not blocked and people feel more relaxed. These steps were necessary for public interest, and citizens are getting relief from them,” he said.
Opposition Hits Back
The minister’s comments have sparked sharp political reactions. Samajwadi Party leader Ashutosh Verma criticised the remarks, saying if Azaan causes discomfort, leaders should reflect on the country’s religious diversity.
The controversy began after Jaiveer Singh made the statement during a traders’ conference in Shikohabad, Firozabad, while speaking about law and order and noise pollution regulations in the state.
The Uttar Pradesh government has previously enforced rules limiting loudspeaker volume at religious places and requiring permission for religious processions and public events. Officials say the aim is to reduce noise pollution and maintain law and order.
