Causing noise pollution is a punishable offence under the law. The punishment is:
Causing Public Nuisance
Creating noise is considered to be a public nuisance when you cause any injury, danger or annoyance to the public1. For example, if your neighbour plays a sound system at midnight very loudly, then this is a public nuisance.
The punishment for such nuisance is a fine up to Rs. 200.2 If you continue to make noise even after the Court directs you to stop the noise, the punishment is jail time up to 6 months along with a fine.3.
Causing Environmental Pollution
Since noise pollution causes significant harm to the environment and surroundings, it is taken seriously under the law. For example, if the construction noise of a building is making it hard for you to live, then this is a form of noise pollution.
The punishment for this offence is jail time up to five years and/or a fine up to Rs. 1 Lakh.4
If the noise pollution continues, then you may be punished with an additional fine of Rs. 5000 for every day the pollution happens. If the noise continues for more than a year despite orders to stop it, then you may be punished with jail time up to 7 years.5
You have a right to complain about noise pollution and the authorities will take action against the responsible persons.