Buthidaung, Arakan State – According to local Rohingya residents, the Arakan Army (AA) has imposed an indefinite restriction on the use of loudspeakers for the Islamic call to prayer (Azan) in mosques throughout Buthidaung Township. Residents report that the restriction came into effect in early June. Prior to the ban, mosques had resumed broadcasting the Azan through loudspeakers after displaced residents returned to the area and were granted permission by the AA to reopen places of worship.

According to local sources, AA officials explained the decision by claiming that “the sound of the Azan resembles the sound of an aircraft.” No additional security or technical justification was reportedly provided.

A resident told local sources that the warning and threatening statements issued by the AA/ULA authorities have made it impossible for mosques in Buthidaung to continue using loudspeakers for the Azan.

Meanwhile, residents note that Buddhist monasteries in the township continue to use loudspeakers for religious sermons, while Arakanese youths are reportedly allowed to play amplified music through sound systems without any known restrictions from the AA terrorists.

A Rakhine affairs observer described the measure as “unfair,” arguing that it limits a religious practice that lasts only a few minutes each day. Critics have further characterized the restriction as a form of religious discrimination.

Source: Local Rohingya residents and regional observers