Allahabad HC to hear suo motu PIL on noise pollution after death of student

Representative image. | Photo credit: GIRI KVS

The Allahabad High Court initiated suo motu proceedings on noise pollution following reports of the death of a 7-year-old Class 2 student at a school in Balrampur when a procession with loudspeakers and a music system passed nearby.

The incident took place on September 22 at Divine Public School on City Palace Road in Bhagautiganj, Balrampur. The deceased has been identified as Vaishnavi Tiwari. According to reports, the procession was part of the 10-day Ganpati Utsav that began on 14

As the incident raises bigger questions about the unchecked menace of noise pollution, a bench of Justice Rajan Roye and Justice Manjiv Shukla on Wednesday (September 28) ordered the registration of a separate suo motu PIL while hearing an existing case related to the use of pressure horns, modified mufflers and horn.

But the court clarified that it did not prove any connection between the alleged loud noise and the child’s death.

The Bench argued that the wider issue of noise pollution and the enforcement of statutory safeguards required a separate assessment. It noted that violations of the Noise (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 were often witnessed in public spaces despite the existing legal framework.

The PIL will examine the authorities responsible for controlling noise pollution, enforcement measures currently in place and whether regular monitoring is required, The Bench said.

The court also emphasized the need for greater public awareness, noting that lack of awareness can contribute to infringements. At the same time, the Bench said that continued violations despite enforcement measures should lead to liability under applicable law.

The court booked the Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), local authorities in Lucknow and officials from key government departments involved in the matter. Balrampur District Magistrate, Superintendent of Police and Chief Medical Officer have also been asked to plead. The state was asked to obtain incident reports and submit details of measures taken or proposed to enforce noise laws.

The court also expressed hope that the child’s parents and school authorities would not face unnecessary pressure or interference. The case will now be heard on October 12.

Published – 02 Oct 2026 18:48 IST