Noise is subjectively irritating, not objectively so. While the same debate is often framed as one between DJs and dhols, either form is integral to culture, if not religion. Its selective use, therefore, becomes a question of cultural comfort, equal opportunity and the livelihood of artists.

In Dr Mahesh Vijay Bedekar, the Bombay High Court dealt with the failure to implement the Noise Pollution Rules, 2000. It held that the culture of noise is not protected under Article 25 of the Constitution. The court further held that noise is also an air pollutant and directed that a toll-free number, including 100, be provided for complaints.

At the same time, the challenge to Rule 3, which was incorporated into Rule 5 and permitted the use of........

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