Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo and former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mayawati on Tuesday criticized the Uttar Pradesh government for its crackdown on loudspeakers at religious sites, particularly during Ramzan. She accused the administration of unfairly targeting Muslims and urged authorities to ensure equal treatment for all religions.
Taking to social media platform X on Tuesday, Mayawati wrote, “India is a secular country that respects all religions. The central and state governments must treat every community fairly and without bias. The step-motherly attitude towards Muslims, even in religious matters, is unjustified.”
She said that rules on festival-related restrictions and exemptions should be applied uniformly across all faiths. “Regulations on religious gatherings and festivals should be enforced without discrimination. However, that doesn’t seem to be happening,” she added.
Mayawati warned that selective enforcement of such rules could lead to unrest. “Actions like these naturally disturb social harmony, which is deeply concerning. The government must take note,” she said.
Ramzan, which began in India on Sunday, is a month-long period of fasting and prayers for Muslims worldwide. It includes special evening prayers called Tarawih, where the entire Quran is recited.
Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh administration has intensified its crackdown on loudspeakers exceeding noise limits at religious places. Police have been strictly enforcing the directive, prompting concerns among Muslim religious leaders.
Muslim Leaders Demand Concessions
Muslim clerics have urged the government to reconsider the restrictions during Ramzan. All India Muslim Jamaat President Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi highlighted the need for loudspeaker announcements for Iftar and Sehri (pre-dawn meal). “People rely on these announcements. A complete ban during Ramzan will cause difficulties. The government should grant some relief,” he said.
The UP government maintains that the drive is aimed at reducing noise pollution and applies to all religious sites. However, critics argue that the enforcement disproportionately impacts the Muslim community, particularly during their holy month.
Mayawati’s remarks add to the ongoing debate, raising questions about religious freedoms and equal treatment under the law in India.
