Bhopal: Shailbala Martin, an IAS officer from Madhya Pradesh, has ignited controversy by raising concerns about the state’s regulation of loudspeakers at places of worship, suggesting possible religious bias in its enforcement.
In a post on X, Martin questioned why loudspeakers from temples are allowed to disturb residents late at night, supporting Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s initiative to regulate noise from all religious venues uniformly.
Her comments drew sharp criticism from the Hindu organization Samskrit Bachao Manch, which accused her of “communalizing” the issue and offending Hindu sentiments. Meanwhile, the Congress party also weighed in, accusing the BJP government of enforcing the order with religious discrimination.
The BJP has denied the allegations, asserting that the government is applying the regulations fairly and constitutionally. Martin has previously faced backlash for her statements, including remarks on women’s issues in Manipur.
