New Delhi: Amid the controversy of loudspeakers being used at high sound levels in temples and mosques, Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex in Uttar Pradesh's Mathura on Wednesday decided to either switch off sound systems or play them at low volume if required, reported news agency PTI.


The decision by the temple authorities came after the Uttar Pradesh government released directives on the use of sound systems at religious places, said Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Trust and Shri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan secretary Kapil Sharma, reported PTI.


According to Sharma, the loudspeakers installed atop Bhagwat Bhawan, one of the buildings inside the Janmabhoomi temple complex, were switched off on Wednesday.


Speaking further, he said that all bhajans and kirtans (prayers) performed at the temple will now be played at low levels so that the sound does not traverse beyond the complex, reported PTI.


Sharma, in fact confirmed that the prayers in form of bhajans and kirtans at the temple are usually played on speakers at very low volume, which does not create any kind of a hindrance to people living nearby.


Meanwhile, 900 religious places in Gautam Buddha Nagar were served legal notices by the police for violating ban on use of loudspeakers. 


About 600 temples and 265 mosques were sent notices and asked to follow High Court's directives on use of loudspeakers at their complexes. The notice was also sent to 217 procession houses, and 175 out of 182 DJ operators., reported news agency ANI.


"If any religious place, DJ operator does not follow the instructions given by the High Court regarding sound, then strict action will be taken against them," read the notice.