AIR 2000 SUPREME COURT 2773

Supreme Court Of India

(From : (1999) 1 Mad LW (Cri) 407)

Hon'ble Judge(s): M. B. Shah, S. N. Phukan , JJ

(A) Constitution of India , Art.25, Art.26— Religious freedom - Use of Loudspeaker - No. religion prescribed that prayers should be performed by disturbing the peace of others nor does it preach that they should be through voice-amplifiers or beating of drums - In name of religion nobody can be permitted to add to noise pollution or violate noise pollution norms - Even if there be a religious practice to use voice amplifiers - It should not adversely affect rights of others including that of being nor disturbed in their activities. (Para 2 12) (B) Environment (Protection) Act (29 of 1986) , S.25— Environment (Protection) Rules (1986) , R.5— Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules (2000) , R.5— Noise pollution - Prayers recited in Church by using Loudspeaker drums etc. - Complaint of noise pollution - Direction given by High Court to authorities to follow guidelines for control of noise pollution issued in 1995 AIHC 4168 and to make the Church to keep speakers at lower level - Directions given are not illegal in view of clear pollution control provision. (Para 10 11) @page-SC2774 (C) Environment (Protection) Act (29 of 19....