Delhi CM extends loudspeaker use deadline for religious events
**Delhi CM Extends Loudspeaker Use Deadline for Religious Events**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 23, 2025, 02:27 PM*
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced an extension of the deadline for using loudspeakers during religious and cultural events in the city’s festive season. The new cutoff time is now midnight, extended until October 3, up from the usual 10:00 PM limit.
This decision comes in response to long-standing demands from organizing committees of popular events such as Ramlila and Durga Puja, who had requested more flexibility in timing.
**Equal Treatment for Hindu Festivals**
CM Gupta highlighted the issue of unequal treatment for Hindu festivals compared to celebrations in other states. She stated, “I always noticed that our Hindu festivals face difficulties because Ramlila or Durga Puja can never end at 10 PM.”
She added, “When Dandiya celebrations can go on all night in Gujarat, and events run through the night in other states, then why can’t we allow the same for the people of Delhi?”
**Official Order on Loudspeaker Use**
The Delhi government has formally issued an order permitting loudspeaker use until midnight, effective until October 3. This extension, however, is subject to strict compliance with noise pollution norms, including a residential noise limit of 45 dB(A) during nighttime hours.
Organizers still need to obtain the necessary permissions and clearances to hold their festive events.
**Mixed Reactions from Residents**
While many residents have welcomed the decision, there are ongoing concerns regarding noise levels and public inconvenience.
Atul Goyal, president of United Residents Joint Action (URJA), emphasized the importance of maintaining decibel levels, especially in neighborhood parks, to ensure the comfort of elderly residents and children. He said, “It’s important to ensure decibel levels do not go too high at neighborhood parks.”
**Commitment to Self-Regulation by Organizers**
Religious event organizers have also expressed their commitment to self-regulate noise levels.
PK Paul, a member of the Dakshinpali Durga Puja Samiti, noted that organizers typically stop using loudspeakers between 11:00 PM and 11:30 PM to minimize disturbance to residents.
Similarly, Anjanesh Bhattacharyya from the CR Park Kali Mandir Puja Samiti echoed this sentiment, stating that their goal is to celebrate the festivals without causing discomfort to the community.
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Delhi’s decision to extend loudspeaker use hours reflects a balance between cultural celebration and community well-being, aiming to respect both festive traditions and residents’ comfort during the season.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-allows-loudspeaker-till-midnight-for-festivals/story
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