The Allahabad High Court, Lucknow Bench, has directed registration of a fresh suo motu Public Interest Litigation concerning noise pollution and compliance with statutory provisions after an incident involving a Class-II student at a school in Balrampur.
A Division Bench comprising Justice Rajan Roy and Justice Manjive Shukla passed the order on September 28, 2026, while considering issues concerning the misuse of pressure horns, modified silencers and hooters.
Background
The matter came up urgently after the Court was informed about an incident on September 22, 2026, near Divine Public School, City Palace Road, Bhagautiganj, Balrampur. According to the order, a young girl studying in Class II collapsed in her classroom while loudspeakers and a music system were allegedly being played at high volume during a procession passing nearby.
The Court specifically clarified that it was not drawing any conclusion about the cause of the child's death. However, the circumstances prompted the Bench to examine the broader issue of noise pollution and enforcement of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
The Bench noted that despite legislative and regulatory measures under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the 2000 Rules, violations of noise-control provisions continue to occur.
The Court observed:
"We make it clear that we have not drawn any conclusion as to the cause of death of the child but the fact that loudspeakers or music instruments were being played at a very high pitch and immediately thereafter, the child collapsed in the classroom persuades us to take cognizance of the matter as noise pollution is now becoming a menace."
The Bench said the proceedings would examine who is responsible for controlling the problem, what measures are currently being taken, and whether regular monitoring is required to ensure compliance. It also highlighted the need for public awareness regarding statutory restrictions on noise.
The Court directed the Registry to register a separate suo motu PIL concerning noise pollution and compliance with statutory provisions. Several government departments and authorities, including the Departments of Home, Transport, Forest and Environment, police authorities and pollution control boards, were directed to be arrayed as opposite parties. The District Magistrate, Superintendent of Police and Chief Medical Officer of Balrampur were also included in connection with the reported incident.
The Court directed the State counsel to obtain reports from the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, Balrampur.
The fresh suo motu PIL was ordered to be listed on October 12, 2026, while the existing PIL was fixed for October 9, 2026.
Case Details
Case Title: Noise Pollution Thru. Modified Silencers Suo Moto v. State of U.P. and Ors.
Case Number: Public Interest Litigation (PIL) No. 15385 of 2021
Judges: Justice Rajan Roy and Justice Manjive Shukla
Decision Date: September 28, 2026
