The Calcutta High Court has permitted the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to hold an event addressed by its chief, Mohan Bhagwat, at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Complex in Purba Bardhaman on February 16, 2025. Justice Amrita Sinha overruled the state’s objections regarding potential exam disruptions, allowing the event under strict sound regulations.
Background
The petitioner, Shri Debasish Choudhury, acting as the RSS’s Zilla Karyavaha, sought court intervention after the Sub-Divisional Officer restricted the use of microphones or sound boxes for the event. The state cited a 2022 prohibitory order, aligned with a 1998 High Court directive, banning loudspeakers near educational institutions during exam periods. This rule applies three days before and during secondary and higher secondary exams conducted by boards like the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education.
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The petitioner argued that the event would occupy only 5,000 square feet of the 7,20,000-square-foot SAI Complex. Two nearby schools were 1–2 kilometers away, and the Sunday timing (11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.) would not clash with exams. They clarified that sound boxes—not loudspeakers—would be used, with audio confined to the venue.
State’s Opposition
The Advocate General opposed the petition, emphasizing the 2022 order’s intent to ensure exam integrity. He argued that regulating sound during the event might be challenging and urged rescheduling.
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Justice Sinha acknowledged ongoing Madhyamik exams but highlighted critical factors:
“The event is scheduled on a Sunday—a holiday—for just 75 minutes. The nearest school is 500 meters away, minimizing disturbance risks. The petitioner must ensure sound remains minimal to avoid inconveniencing exam candidates.”
The court stressed the petitioner’s responsibility to prevent noise pollution, stating:
“The petitioner should behave responsibly, keeping sound levels low. Any inconvenience to students preparing for exams will not be tolerated.”
Case Title: Shri Debasish Choudhury -versus- The State of West Bengal & Ors.
