On Sunday, a case was registered against a Maulvi in the Jahanabad police station area of Uttar Pradesh’s Pilibhit district for using a loudspeaker in a mosque without administrative approval. Jahanabad SHO Manoj Kumar Mishra confirmed that Sub-Inspector Varun, posted at the station, lodged a report stating that a loudspeaker was used during Namaaz at a mosque in Kajitola on Saturday afternoon without authorization.
Violation of Supreme Court and Government Orders
According to Mishra, Maulvi Ashfaq had been informed on February 25 about the Supreme Court and government regulations, which mandate that loudspeakers or public address systems cannot be used without prior approval from the competent authorities. Despite this, he continued using the loudspeaker during Namaaz and Azaan on the evening of February 28. When asked to present a permission letter, he was unable to do so.
Legal Action Taken Against the Cleric
As a result, a case has been registered against Maulvi Ashfaq under sections 223 (disobedience to government orders), 270 (public nuisance), and 293 (continuing public nuisance despite prohibitory orders issued by a lawful authority) of the Indian Penal Code (BNS). The charges were filed for violating the established rules regarding the use of loudspeakers.
Impact on Students and the Community
Mishra emphasized that the ongoing high school and intermediate examinations of the Board of Secondary Education and other boards are crucial for students. The loud noise from the loudspeaker is said to cause disturbances to examinees as well as individuals suffering from serious health conditions. Authorities have urged compliance with regulations to maintain peace and minimize inconvenience to the public.
