Writ filed in HC to curb violence, noise pollution over WC celebrations

A writ petition has been filed in the High Court challenging the inaction of relevant authorities in controlling casualties, violence, public suffering, and noise pollution caused by nationwide supporter celebrations surrounding the FIFA World Cup.

Supreme Court lawyer Mohammad Shafiqul Islam filed the petition in the public interest on Thursday (July 9).

The writ seeks directives to formulate a specific guideline to regulate the use of fireworks and loudspeakers during public screenings and celebrations of the matches. Additionally, it requests the court to order the concerned authorities to take necessary measures to stop illegal loud noises and the use of fireworks after 11pm.

The petitioner stated that according to data published in the media, 11 people have died across the country so far centering on the World Cup. Furthermore, late-night celebrations featuring loud fireworks and loudspeakers are severely disrupting the sleep and daily lives of ordinary citizens, including children, the elderly, and the sick.

A news report attached to the petition highlighted that tensions among rival supporters have periodically escalated into deadly clashes. According to the report, at least 10 people have been killed and 45 others injured in various incidents so far. Among the deceased, three lost their lives to fatal stabbings.

Meanwhile, Additional Commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police's Detective Branch (DB), Shafiqul Islam, stated that the DB will maintain special surveillance at venues where World Cup matches are being broadcast on big screens.