The Gujarat High Court has taken a serious view of continued violations of noise pollution rules in the state, warning authorities of possible contempt proceedings for failing to enforce existing laws. The court was hearing a contempt application linked to an earlier public interest litigation on noise pollution.
Background of the Case
The matter arises from Misc. Civil Application No. 649 of 2025, filed in connection with a PIL addressing rising noise pollution levels across Gujarat. The applicant, appearing in person, argued that despite clear directions from the Supreme Court of India, authorities have failed to implement noise control measures effectively.
Earlier orders of the High Court had already flagged gaps in enforcement, particularly regarding loudspeakers and DJ systems exceeding permissible sound limits.
A division bench comprising Justice Bhargav D. Karia and Justice L. S. Pirzada expressed concern that even after two decades of Supreme Court guidelines, the issue persists.
“The Court cannot remain a mute spectator to the complete defiance of the directions,” the bench remarked, noting that vulnerable sections of society continue to suffer due to unchecked noise levels.
The judges pointed out that while policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) exist including notifications issued in 2019 and subsequent circulars their implementation remains largely ineffective on the ground.
The court also emphasized that under Article 141 of the Constitution, the law declared by the Supreme Court is binding on all authorities and cannot be ignored.
On behalf of the state, the Additional Advocate General submitted that a detailed compliance report would be filed, outlining steps taken to enforce noise pollution norms.
Senior officials, including the Home Secretary and the Chairman of the Gujarat Pollution Control Board, appeared virtually and assured the court of strict compliance with existing rules and directions.
The court noted that current regulations require mandatory installation of sound limiters in audio systems and impose responsibility on police officers to act against violations, especially during night hours (10 PM to 6 AM).
Taking a firm stance, the High Court warned that failure by police or other authorities to act against violations including confiscation of illegal sound systems would attract proceedings under the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.
The bench directed the state authorities to file a detailed compliance report before the next hearing and listed the matter for further consideration on June 18, 2026.
Case Details
Case Title: Amit Manibhai Panchal vs Kaivan M. Dastoor & Ors.
Case Number: Misc. Civil Application No. 649 of 2025
Judges: Justice Bhargav D. Karia & Justice L. S. Pirzada
Decision Date: April 27, 2026
