In the midst of a controversy over the use of loudspeakers near mosques, Maharashtra's Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind unit has urged all mosques in the state to seek permission from the state government.
The Maharashtra home department decided on Monday to carry out previous court rulings prohibiting the use of loudspeakers at religious places. Religious organisations will now be required to request permission before using loudspeakers, according to the state administration.
"Most of the mosques in the state have received permission from the police departments for utilising loudspeakers," Gulzar Azmi, Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind Secretary of the Maharashtra unit, told ANI. However, I continue to urge mosques in the state who have not yet obtained permission to utilise loudspeakers in mosques during Azaan should take the permission.
"The state's police are highly cooperative," he remarked. Mr. Azami emphasised that the police department had granted authorization.
Mr Azami also praised the Maharashtra government for its handling of the loudspeaker problem, saying that the state government is working to ensure that everyone is treated fairly.
Political tensions in the state have risen in recent days, triggered by Raj Thackeray's comments over the loudspeakers.
Raj Thackeray has issued a warning to the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government that if loudspeakers are not removed from mosques by May 3, MNS workers will place speakers outside mosques and play the Hanuman Chalisa.