IAS Officer’s Social Media Comment on Loudspeakers Sparks Controversy

Bhopal, October 23, 2024: IAS officer Shailbala Martin of the Madhya Pradesh cadre stirred controversy after her social media comment on the use of loudspeakers in temples. Responding to a post about DJs and mosque loudspeakers, Martin remarked, “The loudspeakers installed on temples, which spread noise pollution… do not disturb anyone?”

Congress leader Mukesh Nayak supported her stance, stating, “She spoke about equal rights for everyone, as enshrined in the Constitution.” Conversely, BJP leader Ashish Agarwal criticized the remark, emphasizing that officers must adhere to the rule of law and follow the official manual when expressing views publicly.