Guwahati, May 18: Assam BJP MLA-elect Diganta Kalita has called for restrictions on the use of loudspeakers during the Islamic call to prayer, Azan, citing disturbances near the Assam Assembly and MLA hostel. Kalita, elected from the Kamalpur constituency, clarified that he was not opposed to Azan itself but questioned the necessity of amplifying it through loudspeakers.

He explained that during his five years at the MLA hostel, the amplified Azan from a nearby mosque has been performed five times daily, causing disruption. Kalita said he was reviewing legal provisions and court judgments on the matter and intended to raise it with the government.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reiterated that namaz must be offered in a regulated manner without disrupting public order. Addressing a gathering in Lucknow, he emphasized that prayers should not be conducted on roads, stressing that public spaces cannot be misused.

In a post on X, Adityanath stated, “You have to offer namaz, you can read it during your shift. We’ll get you to agree with love, if you don’t agree, we’ll adopt another method.” He added that arrangements could be made in shifts if required, but unnecessary crowding and inconvenience to the public would not be permitted.

The Chief Minister Stressed that the rule of law applies equally to all citizens, noting that roads are meant for movement and cannot be blocked for gatherings. He has consistently maintained that public infrastructure must not be used in ways that disrupt daily life.