IAS Officer in Madhya Pradesh highlights Noise Pollution from Temple loudspeakers; Hindu Group demands apology

An Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer in Madhya Pradesh, Shailbala Martin, is facing criticism after commenting on noise pollution from loudspeakers installed at temples. The controversy started when Martin replied to a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) about DJ music being played outside mosques. She raised a similar concern about loudspeakers in temples, which sparked a strong reaction from a Hindu group.

Hindu Group demands apology

The Sanskriti Bachao Manch, a right-wing Hindu organization based in Bhopal, took offense to Martin's comments. The group’s leader, Chandrashekhar Tiwari, said her remarks could hurt Hindu sentiments and demanded that she apologize. Tiwari added that the chanting and 'aartis' performed in temples are done melodiously, without causing a disturbance.

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Calls for investigation

Tiwari also urged Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to investigate Martin's intentions. He criticized her for implying that noise from Hindu temples is an issue and pointed out that during festivals like Ram Navami and Hanuman Jayanti, incidents of stone-pelting occur, unlike during Muharram processions. 

Senior Congress leader KK Mishra noted that the chief minister had previously issued an order to control noise pollution and called for a response to Martin's comments.