Authorities in Shamli district, Uttar Pradesh, have initiated a first information report (FIR) against an imam for allegedly exceeding the allowed decibel levels while using a loudspeaker at a mosque. This action was reported on Monday.

Maulana Rafique Khan, the imam of Ghumthal village, had received multiple warnings regarding the noise levels following complaints from local residents, according to police sources.

Details regarding the specific decibel levels of the loudspeaker were not disclosed.

The complaint was filed by Sub-Inspector Sonu Chaudhary, who observed the loudspeaker's volume surpassing permissible limits during a routine patrol.

Manoj Verma, the officer in charge at Baniyather Police Station, stated that Chaudhary had previously cautioned the imam about the high volume, as reported.

“After his instructions were disregarded, the officer proceeded to file a formal complaint, resulting in the FIR,” Verma explained.

The FIR against Khan cites sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to non-compliance with orders issued by a public servant and the continuation of a nuisance despite an injunction to cease.

Verma also mentioned that several residents had previously raised concerns about the excessive volume of the loudspeaker.

A police team had visited the mosque to advise the imam on maintaining sound levels within the legal limits, he noted.

“As no corrective measures were taken and violations persisted, the police have now moved forward with legal action,” Verma added.

Ghumthal is predominantly a Hindu village, as indicated by unnamed police officials.

To ensure safety and prevent any potential disturbances, security personnel have been stationed in the village, Verma confirmed.