“Maharashtra Will Soon Be Bhonga-Free”: Kirit Somaiya Claims Loudspeaker Ban to Expand Beyond Mumbai

Panvel: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kirit Somaiya declared that the campaign to remove loudspeakers from religious and public places—commonly referred to as the “bhonga” issue—will now be extended across Maharashtra, following what he claimed was the successful implementation of the drive in Mumbai.

Speaking to the media after visiting three police stations in Panvel with BJP MLA Prashant Thakur, Somaiya said, “Mumbai has become free of loudspeakers, and now Maharashtra will also become ‘bhonga-free.’ Police officials have assured us of strict action within a week, and in the coming month, the entire state will follow Mumbai’s example.”

The term bhonga refers to high-decibel loudspeakers, often used at religious establishments. The issue has long been at the center of political and communal debates in Maharashtra, with several parties raising concerns over noise pollution and the selective enforcement of rules.

Somaiya added that the police in Panvel responded positively to their demands and that local authorities are committed to enforcing noise pollution norms uniformly. “This is not about targeting any religion. This is about the rule of law. Loudspeakers without permission violate court orders and disturb public life. We will ensure compliance across all districts,” he said.