Nagpur Police Allows DJs Within Noise Limits, Cracks Down on Loud Systems

Ahead of the Ganesh festival, Nagpur Police Commissioner Vishwas Nangre Patil on Friday clarified that there is no blanket ban on DJ systems in the city, but strict action will be taken against those violating prescribed noise limits.

The clarification came a day after the police announced restrictions on the use of high-powered and modified sound systems, along with beam and laser lights, during the upcoming festival season. The restrictions, imposed on Thursday under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), will remain in force from September 4 to November 1.

Addressing a press conference, Nangre Patil said sound systems operating within the permitted decibel limits would be allowed. However, police would take action against multi-layered DJ systems that generate excessive noise and vibrations.

“ There is no blanket ban on DJs in Nagpur,” the commissioner said, adding that police would also act against “Plasma” and “Pressure Mid” sound systems if they exceed prescribed limits.

Explaining the concern, he said a multi-layered DJ setup generally consists of bass, mid and top levels, with the bass component capable of producing strong vibrations. Excessive vibrations can affect the human body, he said.

The order does not prohibit traditional musical instruments or music and is intended to regulate noise levels during festivals and celebrations. Nangre Patil stressed that the restrictions were aimed at controlling noise pollution and were not directed against festivals, music or religion.

The police will also enforce noise limits during wedding processions and street band performances, where loud celebrations can often create disturbances.

A decision on extending the restrictions will be taken after reviewing the situation before the 60-day period ends.

The move comes amid a wider debate over noise pollution in Maharashtra, with the issue gaining attention after activist Vidyanand Bapat opposed the use of DJ systems and loudspeakers during the upcoming Ganesh festival at a meeting in Pune.