Gupta and Ajit Kumar. It held that Article 25 does not protect the playing of Azaan through sound amplifying devices. However, the court directed the administration to refrain from causing any hindrance citing COVID19 guideline violations.
It ruled that until and unless there is a license/permission from authorities, Azaan can’t be recited using any sound amplifying devices. Usage of sound amplifying devices will be violative of provisions under Noise Pollution Rules and strict action will be taken in accordance with the law, the court said.
The court was hearing a batch of PILs and letter petitions challenging the district administration’s order that restricted recital of Azaan in view of the COVID19 lockdown. The petitioners include Former Union Minister Salman Kurshid, MP Afzal Ansari and Senior Advocate S Wasim A Qadri.