Guwahati, 18 May (HS): A fresh debate over the use of loudspeakers during religious practices has surfaced in Assam after BJP MLA Diganta Kalita questioned the necessity of amplifiers for Azaan near the Assam Legislative Assembly premises.

Addressing reporters, Kalita clarified that he does not oppose the Islamic practice of Azaan and respects the freedom of every community to follow its religious traditions. However, he raised concerns over the use of loudspeakers for the prayer call, stating that the issue should be examined from both legal and public convenience perspectives.

The legislator said he has been living near the Assembly area for the last five years and regularly hears the Azaan being recited five times a day. While acknowledging the religious significance of the practice, he questioned whether the use of loudspeakers is mandatory under religious norms.

Kalita further informed that he intends to seek legal opinion on the matter and study existing court rulings related to the use of loudspeakers during religious activities. According to him, the matter should be viewed within the framework of law and noise regulations applicable to all communities equally.

His statement is expected to ignite political reactions in Assam, where debates surrounding religious practices, public sound systems and noise pollution have surfaced on several occasions in recent years.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash