Patna High Court intervenes on noise pollution, emphasizes uniform enforcement
The Patna High Court, in the Surendra Prasad vs State of Bihar case (February 2025), criticized the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) for failing to curb noise pollution from DJ trolleys and loudspeakers. The court directed authorities to implement routine, proactive enforcement, including mandatory registration of sound-system operators and event halls, and strict adherence to the 10 p.m. cut-off. It highlighted that episodic, complaint-based enforcement is inadequate and that citizens have a right under Article 21 to be protected from unlawful noise, underscoring the need for consistent enforcement.
Key Points
- Patna High Court acknowledged DJ trolleys and loudspeakers as major sources of noise pollution and criticized BSPCB for inaction.
- The court directed authorities to pursue routine, proactive enforcement instead of relying on complaints.
- Mandatory registration of DJs, sound-system operators, and event halls with subdivisional authorities was ordered.
- Loudspeakers were directed to stop playing by 9:55 p.m., five minutes before the legal 10 p.m. cut-off.
- The court reaffirmed that citizens have a right under Article 21 to be protected from unlawful noise.
Exam Facts
- The case is Surendra Prasad vs State of Bihar, heard in February 2025 by Patna High Court.
- The Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) was criticized for its inaction.
- Article 21 of the Constitution guarantees the right to life, which includes protection from unlawful noise.
- The legal cut-off time for loudspeakers is 10 p.m.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.