The Allahabad High Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) petition that sought the removal of loudspeakers from the Mahakumbh Mela, stating that the plea lacked substantial data to prove that the public address system was causing noise pollution beyond permissible limits.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Kshitij Shailendra observed that the petitioners failed to provide any concrete evidence demonstrating that the loudspeakers were violating noise pollution regulations.
The petition, filed by Brahmachari Dayanand and another petitioner, contended that while they were campaigning in Sector 18 of the Mahakumbh, the surrounding camps were using loudspeakers and LCD screens, causing excessive noise pollution that allegedly hindered their meditation. The petitioners submitted photographs of loudspeakers installed along temporary public roads as part of their evidence.
However, the court deemed the petition insufficient, ruling that a mere reference to Supreme Court judgments and a few photographs were inadequate to substantiate the claim.
“The filing of the petition is based on an academic exercise undertaken based on the judgments of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and producing few pictures of loudspeakers. Such a laconic petition cannot be countenanced,” the bench observed while dismissing the plea.
The court emphasised that without credible data or noise level assessments proving that the public address systems were exceeding permissible decibel limits, the petition did not warrant judicial intervention.
The Mahakumbh Mela, a mass Hindu pilgrimage held in Prayagraj, is known for its large-scale arrangements, including public announcement systems to assist pilgrims with information and safety protocols. Loudspeakers are commonly used for disseminating important announcements, including lost-and-found messages, security alerts, and event schedules.
Meanwhile, another PIL petition has been filed before the Allahabad High Court, seeking legal action against officials and authorities responsible for the January 29 stampede at the Mahakumbh Mela. The petition demands accountability for lapses in crowd management that led to the tragic incident.
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