Orissa High Court bans laser lights, restricts DJ music use in Odisha’s Cuttack

The Orissa High Court imposed a ban on the use of laser lights in Cuttack and clamped strict restrictions on decorative lighting and DJ sound systems in the city, official sources said on Thursday.

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As per the High Court’s directive, the use of laser lights in processions has been prohibited, and decorative illumination will not be allowed strictly after 10.00 PM. The court has also imposed restrictions on the use of DJs during celebrations and processions.

Loud and high-decibel DJ sound systems have been completely banned. The High Court has directed the Commissionerate Police to ensure strict enforcement of the order.

The directives were issued during the hearing of a case related to civic and urban issues in Cuttack City, with the court emphasising the need to regulate noise and light pollution.

“Whenever we are on the road, we all experience the extreme volume of DJs, which affects everyone—be it the elderly, young children, or women. Even for us, the intensity is so high that it makes our hearts throb. When we raised this matter in the High Court, we also highlighted the use of laser lights from within vehicles. When these laser lights hit the eyes, it causes irritation and make the eyes water. In response, the court has ordered a complete ban on laser lights within the Cuttack DCP area until the next hearing,” senior advocate Bibhuti Bhushan Choudhury said to OTV when contacted.

“Secondly, the division bench of the High Court had previously ordered that the volume for DJs and band parties must be kept within 65 decibels. They (the band owners) must ensure this is strictly followed. The High Court inquired today whether the DCP Cuttack is following up on the commitments made in his previous affidavit and what monitoring system is in place. Detailed information regarding the monitoring process must be submitted to the High Court via an affidavit by the next hearing,” the lawyer stated.

“Besides, while those seeking permission for processions are only allowed until 10.00 PM, this rule is not being strictly followed anywhere in the city. Even in wedding venues, DJs continue to play on large sound systems until 11.00 PM or midnight. The High Court has directed the DCP to explain via an affidavit in the next hearing what measures are being taken to prevent this,” advocate Choudhury expressed.

Notably, the division bench of the Orissa High Court included Justice K.R Mohapatra and Justice V Narasingh.