Patna: The issue of azaan being recited through loudspeakers was raked up again on Thursday.
Bihar minister Janak Ram demanded that loudspeakers should be banned across the country as far as azaan in mosques is concerned.
The BJP leader remarked that restrictions are imposed on the use of loudspeakers and speeding vehicles during Hindu festivals like Holi, Diwali and Chhath, but there is no such restriction during azaan in mosques which, he claimed, causes disturbance to other people.
“As per the Constitution, when there is a ban on the playing of loud music by a particular community, then there should be a similar ban on the playing of azaan in mosques also, particularly in those areas where people from other communities also live,” said Janak.
He said that as a public representative, he has been receiving several complaints over use of loudspeakers during azaan in mosques.
“I am of the opinion that if such a ban is in place for the Hindu community, a similar ban should also be in place for the Muslims,” he added.
In May 2020, Allahabad High Court had ruled that azaan can be recited by a muezzin from minarets of the mosque only by human voice, without using any amplifying device or loudspeaker.