Air Pollution In Delhi: Supreme Court Asks Delhi Govt To Decide On Perpetual Ban On Firecrackers
Cloud Seeding: A Misguided Solution To Delhi's Air Pollution Crisis
In a strong directive on firecracker regulations, the Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned the Delhi government’s limited seasonal ban on firecrackers, suggesting a year-round, nationwide restriction to address worsening air pollution. The court emphasized that pollution is a year-round issue and cannot be effectively managed by imposing temporary bans during certain months or festivals.
The bench, consisting of Justices Abhay Oka and Augustine George Masih, took a critical stance, questioning why restrictions on manufacturing, sale, and use of firecrackers were only enforced from October to January. “Why not implement these restrictions for the entire year?” the bench asked, pointing to the ongoing pollution crisis in Delhi.
Addressing arguments from the Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, who noted that current bans target only festive seasons, the court expressed dissatisfaction, underscoring that pollution control efforts should be consistent throughout the year.
In its statements, the Supreme Court stressed that no religion supports actions that harm public health through increased pollution. The court noted, “No faith endorses pollution-producing practices,” indicating that the blanket ban could serve as a proactive measure to protect citizens’ fundamental rights to health and clean air. “If such firecracker usage continues, it would infringe upon citizens’ basic rights to health,” the court observed.
Further, the court criticized an October 14 directive from the Delhi government that prohibited firecracker production and sales yet allowed exceptions for election events and weddings. This selective enforcement drew sharp remarks from the bench, which urged the authorities to implement consistent policies.
In a follow-up directive, the Supreme Court instructed the Delhi Police Commissioner to ensure comprehensive enforcement of the firecracker ban. The court recommended establishing a dedicated team to monitor compliance and provide timely updates. “If anyone considers bursting firecrackers a fundamental right, let them come to court. Plan a system where the ban applies not only during Diwali but throughout the year,” the court ordered.
