Bombay High Court Disposes PIL Against Use Of Laser Beams And Loud Sound Systems During Festivals

The Bombay High Court has disposed a PIL against the usage of laser beams and loud sound systems during religious processions and other ceremonies.

The Division Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar had heard the matter on August 16.

The petitioner had argued that the hazardous laser beams used in festivals resulted in loss of eyesight in several individuals. Further, that the noise pollution due to DJ systems and similar activities led to hearing loss in many individuals.

“The PIL is disposed in light of other remedies being available,” said Justice Borkar while pronouncing the judgment.

In its order, the Court noted that the petitioner can submit a representation to the appropriate authority/State government to take measures for regulating the use of light laser beams. . It also noted that the petitioner can inform the police about any relevant provisions in the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and file a complaint.

“…it shall be open for the petitioner to bring to the notice of the Police Authorities the applicability of Section 125 or any other relevant provision of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, if the facts justify filing of such a complaint.”

Regarding noise pollution, the Court observed that the petitioner sought relief for a report and data on noise pollution complaints from the past two years and actions taken on such complaints. It stated that prayers appear to be in nature of 'roving enquiry'.

The Court remarked “The petitioner is required to independently establish a prima facie case and cannot seek an order from this Court to summon records…”

Case title: Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat Thou Their Sanghatak vs. State Of Maharashtra Through Their Chief Secretary, And Ors (PIL/191/2023 [Civil])

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