**Delhi CM Extends Loudspeaker Use Deadline for Religious Events**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 23, 2025, 02:27 PM*
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced an extension of the deadline for using loudspeakers during religious and cultural events in the city for the festive season. The new cutoff time is now midnight, until October 3, extended from the usual 10:00 PM limit.
This decision comes in response to long-standing demands from organizing committees of major events like Ramlila and Durga Puja, allowing them greater flexibility to conduct celebrations.
**Equal Treatment for Hindu Festivals**
CM Gupta emphasized the need for equal treatment of Hindu festivals in Delhi, similar to those celebrated in other states. She pointed out that traditional celebrations such as Ramlila and Durga Puja often extend beyond 10 PM.
“When Dandiya can go on all night in Gujarat, when events in other states last throughout the night, then why can’t the same be for the people of Delhi?” she questioned, highlighting the discrepancy in festival timings.
**Formal Order for Loudspeaker Use Extension**
The Delhi government has issued a formal order permitting loudspeaker use until midnight through October 3. However, this extension comes with conditions to comply with noise pollution norms, including maintaining a residential noise limit of 45 dB(A) during nighttime.
Organizers still require necessary permissions and clearances to hold festive events under these guidelines.
**Mixed Reactions from Residents**
While many residents have welcomed the decision, concerns remain regarding noise levels and potential public inconvenience. Atul Goyal, president of United Residents Joint Action (URJA), stressed the importance of keeping decibel levels in check, especially in neighborhood parks for the comfort of elderly residents and children.
“It’s important to ensure decibel levels do not go too high at neighborhood parks,” Goyal said.
**Organizers Commit to Self-Regulation**
Religious event organizers have expressed their commitment to managing noise responsibly to minimize disturbance. PK Paul, a member of the Dakshinpali Durga Puja Samiti, mentioned that loudspeaker use usually stops between 11:00 PM and 11:30 PM to avoid inconveniencing residents.
Similarly, Anjanesh Bhattacharyya from the CR Park Kali Mandir Puja Samiti echoed this sentiment, stating their aim is to celebrate in a way that respects the community’s comfort.
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The extension aims to balance festive enthusiasm with public peace, ensuring cherished celebrations can continue while addressing residents’ concerns.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-allows-loudspeaker-till-midnight-for-festivals/story