Nagpur city police have restricted high-decibel DJ systems and loudspeakers during public festivals, invoking Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 on Thursday. According to a notification issued by Nagpur Police Commissioner Vishwas Nangre Patil, the restriction will remain in force from midnight of September 3 until 11.59 pm on November 1, 2026, covering major festivals including Ganeshotsav, Eid, Navratri, Durga Puja, Dussehra and Diwali. City police have banned use of modified vehicles equipped with DJ sound systems, top/mid/bass multi-speaker systems, plasma sound systems, pressure-horn-based sound systems and other high-intensity amplified sound systems during processions and festive events. Such modified vehicles have also been directed to be kept in their original condition and not used for operating these sound systems during the restriction period. The order states that excessively loud sound systems can cause serious noise pollution, inconvenience to citizens and potential law and order issues.

 

It also cites compliance with the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 and applicable environmental norms. However, sound systems operating within the prescribed permissible noise limits under the Noise Pollution Rules will not be covered by the prohibition. Police have warned that violations of the order may invite legal action under the applicable provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The order applies across the Nagpur City Police Commissionerate limits. The move comes as Nagpur Police and the civic administration step up enforcement against excessive noise during the festive season. High intensity beam lights banned... public safety and traffic movement.

 

The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, will remain in effect from September 3 midnight until 11.59 pm on November 1, 2026. Police said high intensity beam and laser lights used during processions and public events can affect the eyesight of people and motorists. Such lights may temporarily impair drivers’ vision, increasing the risk of road accidents and potentially creating law and order problems. The order directs owners and operators of beam and laser lights, as well as organisers and office-bearers of festival committees and mandals, to keep such equipment sealed and out of use during the prohibition period. Violation of the order will invite action under the relevant provisions of the BNSS, police said.

 

 

environment by addressing noise generated from sources such as traffic, construction, loudspeakers, DJs, firecrackers and industrial activities. Citizens can register complaints through the dedicated portal https://noisefreenagpur.in/. The user-friendly system allows individuals to file reports by providing details such as the location, source, time, and nature of the nuisance. To strengthen the complaint, users can upload photographic, audio, or video evidence. Upon submission, a unique reference number is generated, enabling users to track the status of their report in real-time. A key highlight of the system is its efficiency; it mandates action within 30 minutes of receipt.

 

If no response is recorded within this timeframe, the complaint is automatically escalated to higher-ranking officials, including the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP). The service operates 24/7, supports anonymous reporting, and is accessible via mobile, computer, or tablet. QR codes for the portal are also displayed at local police stations and on social media. Developed under the guidance of Municipal Commissioner Dr Vipin Itankar, the system currently spans six police zones and 35 police stations. NMC officials have urged citizens to actively participate in this initiative to help make Nagpur a noise-free city.

 

 

Food Safety Officers will now conduct physical inspections at places where food is distributed to large groups, including Mahaprasad, Iftar meals, annachhatras, langars and bhandaras, under Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration ( FDA)’s new year-round festival food-safety enforcement calendar. The inspections will verify compliance with food safety laws and standards, particularly hygiene and safety of food preparation and distribution. FDA also places responsibility on organisers and caterers. Caterers preparing or serving food at such events must hold a valid licence under the appropriate ‘Caterer’ business category. They are required to inform the Designated Officer in the prescribed format at least seven days before the event. Organising committees and institutions have been directed to engage only licensed caterers for community food distribution.

 

 

The issue of ban on high-decibel DJ sound systems and laser beams during festivals has evoked contrasting reactions from Bharatiya Janata Party leaders in the city. While Sandip Joshi, former Member of Legislative Council, has come out in support of the decision, whereas BJP city President Dayashankar Tiwari and Pravin Datke, Member of Legislative Assembly, Nagpur Central, have expressed their opposition to the move. However, BJP claimed that all the comments are being made in individual capacity and are not official stand of the party. Joshi has been one of the strongest advocates of restrictions on DJ sound systems.

 

He recently welcomed the Commissioner of Police’s order imposing a two-month ban on DJs and laser beams, calling it a step towards tackling noise pollution. He has also launched a public campaign seeking a permanent ban on DJ systems, citing adverse impact on children, senior citizens and patients. On the other hand, Datke has questioned restrictions on DJs during religious celebrations. In a social media post, he asked, “Why the opposition only to Hindu festivals?”, indicating his disagreement with the curbs imposed during festive processions and celebrations. BJP city president Dayashankar Tiwari has also voiced opposition to the decision, aligning himself with those seeking relaxation of the restrictions during religious festivities.