The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has flagged concerns over noise pollution during Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations at “Samvidhan Square”, observing that such activities may infringe the right to life under Article 21.
A Division Bench of Justices Urmila Joshi-Phalke and Nivedita P. Mehta was hearing a batch of PILs alleging that loud slogans, firecrackers, and late-night celebrations violated the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 and disturbed public health and peace.
The Court highlighted that while citizens have a right to celebrate, such celebrations cannot come at the cost of others’ dignity, health, and right to peaceful living. It observed that loud noise, particularly during night hours, adversely affects vulnerable groups and even disturbs ecological balance.
Invoking the ideals of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Bench emphasised that freedom must not turn into licence and that individual rights must be exercised with responsibility towards others.
The Court issued notices to the event organisers seeking an explanation and also called upon the Commissioner of Police, Nagpur to clarify steps taken to safeguard citizens’ rights. The matter has been listed for further hearing on June 9, 2026.
Appearances
For the Petitioners / Amicus:
- Mr. Abdul Subhan, Amicus Curiae (PIL No. 90/2025 & Suo Motu PIL No. 16/2025)
- Dr. B.K. Wasnik, Petitioner-in-person (PIL No. 90/2025)
- Mr. A.C. Dharmadhikari, for the Petitioner (PIL No. 8/2025)
- Mr. Anand Parchure, for the Petitioners (WP No. 689/2026)
For the Respondents:
- Mr. K.N. Shukul, DSGI a/w Ms. P.N. Hardas, for Respondent Nos. 1, 10 & 56 / Respondent No. 8 / Respondent Nos. 1 & 56
- Mr. N.S. Rao, AGP, for the State
- Mr. S.S. Sanyal, for Respondent Nos. 5, 6 & 11
- Mr. S.M. Ukey, for Respondent Nos. 3 & 13
- Ms. V. Ramidhami h/f Mr. Apurv De, for Respondent No. 7
- Mr. S. Deshmukh h/f Mrs. Gauri Venkatraman, for Respondent No. 7
