Trustees voice concern over selective targeting; police cite high court’s noise pollution guidelines
MUMBAI – A recent wave of police action against the use of loudspeakers in mosques has stirred unrest in several Muslim-majority areas of Mumbai, with residents and mosque trustees questioning what they see as selective enforcement of noise pollution rules.
In a crackdown led by Trombay Police, fines were imposed on six mosques in the Cheeta Camp area. More than two microphones were removed from each site, with police citing violations of high court guidelines on permissible sound levels.
“We have been told to remove the loudspeakers and only install small microphones,” confirmed a local trustee, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The police say the sound must not exceed 60 decibels. But the issue isn’t just the sound – it’s that mosques seem to be the only ones being targeted.”
According to Senior Inspector Wilvi of Trombay Police Station, the action was taken following directives from Assistant Commissioner of Police (ATC) Sushil Londe. “A clear message has been sent to all mosque trustees,” he said. “Loudspeakers must be removed immediately. Only two speakers will be permitted, and the volume must be strictly controlled.”
He further stated that only mosques with legal structural status would be considered for permission to use sound systems. “The people who attended our recent meeting have been informed of these conditions. Stricter action will follow in case of non-compliance,” he warned.
However, when Clarion India asked Inspector Wilvi to justify the removal of loudspeakers, he only said that noise is the problem at the moment. He declined to elaborate further.
The enforcement drive has sparked concern among local Muslims, particularly in Cheeta Camp – a densely populated neighbourhood with a significant Muslim population. Many residents argue that the police are disproportionately focusing on mosques, while other places of worship continue to use sound systems without facing similar scrutiny.
“There is a growing feeling in the community that mosques are being singled out,” said one worshipper. “We understand the need to control noise, but the law should apply equally to everyone.”
Similar concerns have been raised in other localities such as Govandi, Chembur, Vikhroli, and Powai. In contrast, mosque trustees in areas like Madanpura, Bhendi Bazaar, Nagpada, and Malvani report that police have only asked for formal permissions but have not removed microphones or imposed fines.
Local MLA Sana Malik sought to allay public fears, asserting that the action was not confined to Islamic places of worship. “Such steps are being taken in temples as well, including in areas like Kurla and Saki Naka,” she said. “This is as per the high court’s order on controlling noise pollution.”
She added, “If a mosque is following the rules and still being penalised or harassed by police, I will raise the issue with senior officials and ensure full support to the trustees.”
In contrast to the unrest in Cheeta Camp, the situation at Mumbai’s iconic Jama Masjid remains calm. The LT Marg police conducted inspections during prayer timings and expressed satisfaction with the mosque’s sound management.
“The decibel level was within the acceptable range, and we appreciated the cooperation of the trustees,” said an officer from LT Marg Police Station.
Jama Masjid trustee Shoaib Khatib told Clarion India that the mosque voluntarily avoids using microphones during Fajr (dawn) prayers due to its location in a commercial zone.
“We use microphones for the other four prayers but always keep the volume within the permitted decibel level,” he explained. “That way, there are no complaints. It’s not about removing loudspeakers – it’s about managing the sound responsibly.”
Khatib urged other trustees across the city to take a proactive approach. “The issue is noise pollution, not religion. We must abide by the law. If there’s misuse of power by any officer, we’ll raise it through the appropriate channels.”
Police officials have indicated they will conduct random checks during prayer times to monitor compliance. “Inspections will be routine,” said a police source. “If anyone is found violating the noise guidelines, they will face penalties including fines and possible removal of sound systems.”
Under the high court’s directives, the use of loudspeakers or public address systems requires prior approval from local authorities. The sound must not cause a public nuisance or exceed the prescribed decibel levels, particularly in residential and silence zones.
As the debate unfolds, many in Mumbai’s Muslim community are grappling with how to uphold religious practices while complying with civic regulations.
“This issue demands a sensitive and fair approach,” said a senior community leader. “Faith should not be criminalised, and the law must be applied without discrimination. We are ready to cooperate, but we expect fairness in return.”
The controversy highlights the broader challenge of balancing freedom of religion with the need to curb environmental noise – a matter likely to remain under close watch in the days ahead.
