Mumbra: Police action in Mumbra has intensified over the removal of mosque loudspeakers, leading several mosque trustees to replace them with smaller sound systems. Following instructions issued earlier in Mumbai, police have asked mosque committees in Mumbra to comply with sound-level regulations in line with High Court and Supreme Court guidelines.
Trustees of Mubarak Jama Masjid confirmed that their loudspeaker has been removed after repeated warnings. “We were called to the police station several times and given strict directions. Under pressure, we had no choice but to take it down and install a small speaker,” said trustee Mohammed Salim. He added that other mosques have faced similar action.
Community leaders argue that the High Court order only requires sound levels to be kept within permissible limits and does not demand removal of loudspeakers. “We reminded the police that the court has not ordered complete removal, but they are unwilling to listen,” said Maulana Abdul Wahab Qasmi of Jamiat Ulama Mumbra.
To coordinate a response, an 18-member committee of mosque trustees, scholars, and social workers has been formed. The committee will represent local mosques in discussions with the police. A detailed meeting with the Thane Police Commissioner was scheduled after Friday prayers to address the issue.
According to the Police, nearly half the mosques in Mumbra have already removed loudspeakers. He maintained that the action was not targeted at any one community and stressed that police were simply enforcing court orders.
