✎ Bombay HC bans loud elements in processions to curb noise pollution under Noise Pollution Rules, 2000.
Relevance for Banking, SSC & RBI Grade B exams: Polity
The Bombay High Court has imposed a blanket ban on firecrackers, laser lights, music, instruments, and sound systems during festival processions in Maharashtra, citing severe noise and air pollution concerns. The order, passed on September 22, mandates organisers and *mandals* to deposit ₹1 lakh as a precondition for permission under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, while individuals must deposit ₹50,000. The court also directed the installation of decibel meters, sound limiters, and strict accountability measures, including forfeiture of deposits for violations. Additionally, authorities have been ordered to confiscate unauthorised devices and enforce penalties under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Explosives Act, 1884. The bench, comprising Justices Girish Kulkarni and Dr Neela Gokhale, took suo motu cognisance of the issue and adjourned the matter till October 15 for compliance assessment.
This ruling holds significant relevance for Banking, SSC, and RBI Grade B aspirants as it underscores the interplay between judicial activism and regulatory governance, a recurring theme in governance and polity sections of competitive exams. For banking exams like IBPS PO and SBI Clerk, questions on noise pollution regulations, environmental laws, and judicial interventions could appear in the General Awareness or Banking Awareness sections. Similarly, SSC exams may test candidates on constitutional provisions, fundamental duties, and the role of courts in environmental protection. For RBI Grade B, understanding the economic implications of pollution control—such as healthcare costs or regulatory compliance burdens on businesses—could be crucial for Economic and Social Issues (ESI) papers. The case also highlights the importance of inter-departmental coordination between judiciary, police, and municipal authorities, a governance aspect often examined in descriptive papers.
Source: The Hindu
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