After Raj Thackeray’s warning, Maha limits use of loudspeakers at religious places

Day after Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray reiterated his warning to take down loudspeakers from the mosques by May 3, the state Home Department on Monday stated that the use of loudspeakers at the religious sites will only be allowed with due permission.

State Home Minister Dilip Walse Patil said that the Director General of Police and Mumbai Police Commissioner together will formulate guidelines on the use of loudspeakers in public places within the next two days.

Patil also held a meeting with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray at the CM’s residence to discuss the law and order situation in the state and the issue of the use of loudspeakers in public places.

“Maharashtra DGP along with the Mumbai police commissioner will formulate guidelines on the use of loudspeakers in public places. These guidelines will be issued in the next 1-2 days,” said the state Home Minister.

Patil further warned of strict action against those attempting to disrupt peace in the state.

“We have kept an eye on the law and order situation in the state. Strict action will be taken against those who attempt to disturb peace in the state,” he said.

Amid the loudspeaker row in the state, Raj Thackeray on Sunday said that the Muslims in the country should understand that “religion is not above law and country” while asking them to take down loudspeakers from mosques.

“We don’t want riots in Maharashtra. No one has opposed the offering of prayers. We want the loudspeakers that are put up in the mosques and are illegal in the entire country should be taken down. If you do it on loudspeaker, then we will also use loudspeakers for it. Muslims should understand that religion isn’t bigger than the law. After May 3, I will see what to do,” Thackeray had said.

The MNS chief had asked the Hindus to “wait till May 3” and play Hanuman Chalisa thereafter in front of the mosques that “don’t take down the loudspeakers”.

Meanwhile, Nashik Police Commissioner Deepak Pandey has directed the religious places to seek permission for the use of loudspeakers by May 3.

“All religious places have been directed to take permission for use of loudspeakers by May 3. After May 3, if anyone is found violating the order then legal action to be taken against the violators,” he said.

Pandey also informed that Hanuman Chalisa or Bhajan can be played after seeking permission which will not be granted before and after 15 minutes of Azan to maintain law and order.

“Permission has to be taken for playing Hanuman Chalisa or Bhajan. It will not be allowed within 15 minutes before and after the Azan. It will not be allowed within 100 metres of the mosque. The aim of this order is to maintain law & order,” the CP said.