Supreme Court says the order is a measure to protect environment

The court made the interim order after considering a petition submitted by a group of residents in Weligama against sound pollution.

Those willing to use loudspeakers during this period for religious festivals should submit an application to the nearest magistrates court, the SC ruled.

Chief Justice Sarath Silva who chaired the three-judge bench panel observed that nobody has a right to make unbearable noises as they wish.

The order is a measure to safeguard the environment, the CJ said, and ordered the Defence Secretary and the IGP to take stern action against those who violate the court order.