Enough noise! Maharashtra Election Commission steps in, slams loudspeakers after rallies

PUNE: Tired of sleepless nights and blaring loudspeakers during election season? The Maharashtra State Election Commission has finally stepped in. 

On Tuesday, the commission issued a clarification to curb unnecessary noise and enforce election discipline once official rallies wrap up.

Citing a circular from 2012, the order clearly stated that after public rallies, candidates can continue door-to-door campaigning but loudspeakers and microphones are banned totally. As per the commission, the candidates and their teams can engage voters directly at their homes, but forcing their way into communities or using amplified devices to disturb residents will strictly be not allowed.”

Officials said the move is meant to protect citizen comfort while keeping the democratic process alive. Violations of these rules, they warned, could invite strict action against both candidates and their campaign teams, said sources.

The clarification comes after repeated complaints from residents about campaign noise blaring late into the night, long after rallies have officially ended. The Election Commission also reminded authorities to enforce the 100 meter no campaign zone around polling booths and ensure that door-to-door campaigning is conducted respectfully.

One of the voters from Wadgaonsheri-Kharadi Azar Parvez said, “This could finally mean peace at home and a chance to make informed choices without being blasted by loudspeakers. It is indeed an important win for sanity this election season.”