A Muslim family in Mumbai’s suburb of Thane reportedly converted their residence into a madrasa where they used to play Azaan (Islamic prayer) on a loudspeaker three times a day, thereby causing a nuisance to their neighbours. It must be mentioned that the flat was provided to the family by Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
According to available reports, they disturbed the neighbourhood’s peace by using loudspeakers for their prayers. Furthermore, the family refused to heed the requests of their neighbours to pray peacefully without using loudspeakers. When their repeated requests went unheeded, neighbours approached the police and sought their intervention. They informed the police that Azaan was being played at a high volume, causing noise pollution.
On learning about the incident, MNS (Maharashtra Navnirman Sena) Thane Palghar District President Avinash Jadhav visited the place along with the police. The police conducted a thorough investigation and recovered a speaker. Jadhav said that the party wouldn’t allow any violation of the Supreme Court’s order on loudspeakers. As per SC guidelines, loudspeakers shouldn’t be used between 10 PM and 6 AM, and the volume of the loudspeakers should be kept at such levels that it shouldn’t disturb others.
Videos of the incident were shared on social media, where it was seen that the family used loudspeakers for prayers. Jadhav said that college students in the building complained about using loudspeakers for Azaan. We have learned that a flat was converted into a madrasa, where many people visit for namaz. He added that Mahanagar Palika has allotted the rooms, and those who have shifted here from Mumbra are involved in running the madrasa.
Every evening, calls to Azaan are made, witnessed by the police team accompanying Jadhav and others to visit the family. A board has also been put up giving information regarding the timings of namaz.
SC has prohibited loudspeakers in mosques. Then how can a family install one in their home in a residential colony?
(Featured Image Source: News Bharati)
