In pursuance of the directive received from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights vide. No. F.No: 32-384/2022/NCPCR/Misc./LC/DD-1396 dated: 20.12.2022 for the recommendation for regulating the use of loudspeakers in view of ensuing school examination. The Commission also has the power of Civil Court trying a suit under Section 14 of the CPCR Act, 2005, and the Code of Civil Protection, 1908.
As exams for children are approaching and it is a crucial time of the year for students as they will be preparing for their examinations. However, it has been observed by the Commission that the use of loudspeakers beyond the permissible limit is a common phenomenon in various social/religious/political/events/functions. As a result of which, the students preparing for examinations are not only disturbed but also not able to give their best in the examinations.
In this regard, in the case of Re: Noise Pollution, W.P. (C) No. -72/1998 restricting the use of loudspeakers, the Supreme Court of India has issued certain guidelines for the use of loudspeakers as mentioned below.
- The noise level at the boundary of the public places, where a loudspeaker or public address system or any other noise source is being used shall not exceed 10dB (A) above the ambient noise standards for the area or 75 dB (A) whichever is lower.
- No one should beat a drum or tom-tom or blow a trumpet or beat or sound any instrument or use any sound amplifier at night (between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM) except in a public emergency.
- The peripheral noise level of a privately-owned sound system shall not exceed by more than 5dB (A) the ambient air quality standard specified for the area in which it is used, at the boundary of the private place. Also the noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules,2000 has laid down the permissible noise level in India- In industrial areas, it is 65 dB and 55 dB, while in residential areas, it is 55 dB and 45 dB during day and night respectively.
There the political parties/Candidates/ public of Longleng district have been directed to abide by these directions/guidelines, failing which to comply with this order an appropriate action will be taken as per the law.
(Manjong Phom, IA Longleng)