Orissa High Court Bans Laser Lights, Imposes Curbs on Night Processions and DJs in Cuttack

Bhubaneswar: The Orissa High Court has imposed a strict ban on the use of laser lights in Cuttack and introduced fresh regulations on excessive lighting and high-decibel sound systems, citing concerns over public safety, noise pollution, and potential health risks.

In a significant directive, the court prohibited the use of laser lights across the city. The move comes amid growing concerns about the possible health hazards posed by laser beams, disruptions during festivals and public events, and the general nuisance caused to residents.

The court has also placed restrictions on night-time processions, stating that no such events should continue beyond 10 PM. Decorative and excessive lighting in both public and private spaces during late hours has been curtailed to reduce light pollution, energy wastage, and disturbances to local residents.

Further, the use of DJs—often accompanied by intense lighting and high-decibel sound—has been regulated, particularly during public gatherings such as festivals, marriage processions, and celebratory events.

A bench of the High Court directed the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate Police to strictly implement and enforce these measures to ensure compliance.

The latest orders are seen as an extension of earlier judicial interventions during major festivals like Durga Puja and Dussehra, when the court had imposed similar restrictions on laser lights, loud DJs, firecrackers, and tall illuminated structures. Those measures were aimed at preventing accidents, maintaining public order, and avoiding communal tensions.

With the new directive, authorities are expected to step up monitoring of events and celebrations in Cuttack to ensure that safety and environmental norms are not violated.