Now Raj Thackeray objects to use of loudspeakers during azaan

Raj Thackeray. PTI Photo

PUNE: In a controversial statement, MNS chief Raj Thackeray on Friday questioned the use of loudspeaker for azaan, the Muslim's call for prayer, and asked them to pray at home without disturbing others. "Today, I want to ask all the Muslims that why do you need loudspeakers for morning azaan. If you want to offer namaaz, then pray at home. Why do you block roads?" Thackeray asked. He said people should understand their responsibility so that there is no situation of a confrontation in country or state should arise. Thackeray was addressing a gathering of party workers here on the occasion of Guru Purnima on Friday. The row over loudspeakers at religious places erupted last year when singer Sonu Nigam lashed out at "forced religiousness" in India after being woken up by the azaan from a mosque nearby his residence. "God bless everyone. I'm not a Muslim and I have to be woken up by the azaan in the morning. When will this forced religiousness end in India," Nigam had then said. Reacting to which, Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said the Quran or Islam never said that azaan has to be delivered through loudspeakers. "Quran or Islam never said that azaan has to be delivered through loudspeakers. Azaan should be delivered in such a way that others do not get disturbed," Patel had said. "We are living in an era of technology. I am not against the use of loudspeakers. But, we also need to ensure that it does not cause any inconvenience to others," he had asserted.