Pune, An important decision has been taken between the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and the government over the Azan and Hanuman Chalisa in Maharashtra. The government has ordered that the approval of the Home Department be sought before installing loudspeakers at the shrine.
According to a recent circular issued by the Home Department, it is now necessary to go to the office of the Commissioner of Police and seek approval before installing a speaker. A meeting was also held between Home Minister Dilip Walse Patil and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on the issue this afternoon.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray has given an ultimatum to remove loudspeakers from mosques by May 3. Meanwhile, Nashik Police Commissioner Deepak Pandey said that by May 3, permission would have to be sought to install loudspeakers not only in mosques but in all religious places. After approval, they will be able to play the speaker within the specified decibels.
Deepak Pandey said that as per the rules, mosques, temples, gurdwaras, churches and other religious places have to apply in writing for the installation of speakers there.
Violators of this order will be severely punished. It carries a sentence of 4 months to one year. “We will allow everyone as per the order of the Supreme Court,” the Nashik commissioner said.