Mayawati Criticizes UP Government’s Loudspeaker Crackdown During Ramzan

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati sharply criticized the Uttar Pradesh government’s decision to remove unauthorised loudspeakers from religious places during Ramzan, a month of fasting and prayer for Muslims.

The government’s move, part of a broader crackdown on loudspeakers exceeding noise limits, has sparked political controversy.

Mayawati raised concerns about the selective enforcement of rules and urged authorities to treat all religions equally, without bias or partiality.

Call For Equal Enforcement Of Rules

In a statement on social media platform X, Mayawati emphasized that India is a secular country that respects all religions.

She criticized the decision as part of a broader trend of “step-motherly” treatment towards Muslims.

“The central and state governments should treat the followers of all religions equally, but the attitude being adopted towards Muslims, especially in religious matters, is not justified,” she stated.

She further pointed out that authorities should apply noise restrictions for religious festivals uniformly across all faiths.

“The rules and regulations related to restrictions and exemptions for festivals of all religions should be implemented equally, without any bias,” she said.

Mayawati expressed concern that the selective enforcement of these rules could lead to tensions in society.

Risk To Peace & Harmony

Mayawati warned that the partial application of such measures could lead to societal discord.

“It is natural for peace and harmony in society to deteriorate due to this, which is a matter of great concern,” she stated.

She urged the authorities to reconsider their stance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony and peace in the state.

Ramzan, which began on Sunday in India, is a month-long period for Muslims to fast, pray, and engage in spiritual reflection.

During Ramzan, people hold special evening prayers called Tarawih, and loudspeakers often broadcast prayers and Quran recitations.

However, the Uttar Pradesh administration has taken a firm stance against loudspeakers exceeding noise levels at religious sites, which has led to Muslim leaders calling for exemptions during Ramzan.

Government’s Enforcement Of Noise Regulations

The police have been actively enforcing the noise regulations, resulting in calls for concessions for the use of loudspeakers during Ramzan.

Religious leaders have argued that the use of loudspeakers during this time is vital for the prayers and spiritual observances of Muslims.

However, the Uttar Pradesh government maintains that the crackdown on noise pollution is necessary to maintain public peace and avoid disturbances.

As the controversy over the loudspeaker regulations continues, Mayawati’s statements highlight a broader debate on how India treats religious practices.

Her call for equal treatment of all religions highlights the challenges faced by the government in balancing public order with respect for religious freedoms.

The matter remains sensitive, with the potential to impact the social and political landscape in the state.

Also Read: FIR Registered Against Abu Azmi For Controversial Remarks On Aurangzeb