Karnataka High Court Upholds Police Ban On DJs, Sound Systems During Festivals

The Karnataka High Court dismissed a petition challenging a police circular that prohibited the use of DJs and sound systems in processions and public pandals during Gauri Ganesh and Eid-Milad festivals.

A Division Bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C M Joshi held that the restriction was consistent with the Noise Pollution Rules, which cap permissible levels at 55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night.

The petitioner contended that the ban infringed Article 19(1)(g), but the Court clarified that the circular was regulatory, not a blanket prohibition.

Finding no infirmity, the Court upheld the circular.

[Shankar v. Secretary & Others]