Rights panel steps in over noise pollution from temple in Kerala’s Malappuram
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has ordered local police to enforce noise pollution regulations at a temple in Malappuram following a resident's complaint. Inspections confirmed that sound levels exceeded legal limits, prompting the commission to mandate compliance and investigate other grievances.
Why it matters
The case highlights the ongoing tension between religious practices and environmental regulations regarding noise pollution in residential areas.
The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has directed the police to take action against noise pollution from the Kolappattu Mahavishnu Temple at Edavanna under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, framed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Commission judicial member K. Baijunath issued the direction while considering a complaint filed by a local resident, Jayan, against excessive noise from the temple.
A noise-level inspection conducted by the State Pollution Control Board found sound levels exceeding the permissible limit. The Commission said that amplifiers could be used only within the limits prescribed by the law.
The Commission directed the Edavanna Station House Officer (SHO) to strictly enforce the noise pollution control rules and take steps to prevent the temple from generating sound beyond the permitted level. It also ordered that measures be taken to ensure that Mr. Jayan and his family do not face hardship because of noise pollution.
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