Mangaluru Dasara illumination to be handled by MCC: MLA Kamath

They want relief for events like Nemotsava, Yakshagana and Daivaradhane

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @ Mangaluru

RSS and VHP leaders along with prominent Yakshagana and Tulu film artistes have called upon the state government to revise existing noise control laws, stating that their current implementation is adversely affecting long-standing religious and cultural traditions in Dakshina Kannada.

Speaking at a 'Janagraha Sabhe' organised at Gorakshanath Mandir in Kadri, the delegation demanded immediate relief for events like Nemotsava, Yakshagana, Daivaradhane and other traditional night-long performances which they said are being unfairly restricted under the guise of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.

The gathering termed the current enforcement of noise rules as "discriminatory", pointing out that such restrictions are being imposed selectively during Hindu festivals in the coastal district, while political rallies and other public events in other regions continue to use high-decibel sound systems without interference.

A memorandum was submitted to the state government through local MLAs, demanding that these rules be revised in consultation with cultural leaders, artistes and sound service providers. Until then, the government was urged to allow traditional events to be conducted as per long-standing local customs, especially during significant religious occasions.

The delegation also sought special exemption during the upcoming Dasara festival from September 22 to October 3, citing Rule 5(3) of the Noise Rules, which permits relaxation during festive seasons.