The Belagavi district administration has imposed a district-wide ban on DJ systems and high-decibel sound equipment exceeding 75 decibels, citing concerns over noise pollution and public safety.
The order was issued by Belagavi Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan, IAS, following reports submitted by the Commissioner of Police, Belagavi City, and the Superintendent of Police, Belagavi District. Authorities stated that in recent months, the use of loud DJ systems and sound amplification equipment during festivals, processions, and public gatherings has disturbed public peace and raised health and law-and-order concerns.
Invoking the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, and Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, the administration has prohibited the use of DJ systems, bass boosters, mobile DJ vehicles, and other sound amplification devices exceeding 75 decibels across Belagavi district until further orders.
The directive also emphasises strict monitoring in residential areas and silent zones, including hospitals, schools, courts, and religious places, particularly within a 100-metre radius. Additionally, DJ systems and loud sound equipment are not permitted between 10 pm and 6 am anywhere in the district.
Permission Needed for Events; Violators Face Seizure and Legal Action
The administration clarified that limited sound systems may be permitted only in exceptional circumstances, and organisers must obtain prior written permission from the police department. Event organisers will also be required to submit a written undertaking confirming compliance with noise pollution regulations.
Police authorities have been empowered to take immediate action in case of violations. This may include halting the event or procession, seizing DJ equipment, disconnecting electricity supply if required, dispersing gatherings and initiating legal action against those responsible. Officials warned that organisers will be held personally accountable for violations, and future permissions for events may also be denied.
The order has come into immediate effect across Belagavi district and will be implemented by the Commissioner of Police, Belagavi City, and the Superintendent of Police, Belagavi District. Authorities have urged citizens and event organisers to strictly follow the directive to maintain public peace, health and safety.
