'Complete ban not practical or ideal': SC hints at partial relaxation on firecracker ban

NEW DELHI: Days before Diwali celebrations, the Supreme Court on Friday observed that a complete prohibition on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR was “neither practical nor ideal", noting that such bans were often flouted and calling for a “balancing of equities” between environmental protection and citizens’ right to celebrate festivals.

- AIMAN FATIMA

A bench of Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran made the remarks while reserving its verdict on a series of petitions seeking permission to manufacture and sell “green” firecrackers in the National Capital Region. The court's observations suggested the possibility of partial relaxation of the blanket ban that has been in place since 2018.

“Despite a complete ban, firecrackers continue to be used. Extreme orders create problems,” Chief Justice Gavai said, adding that the court sought a “balanced solution” that protects both environmental interests and livelihoods.

During the hearing, the bench questioned whether the ban had made any measurable difference to air quality in the region. “Has the air quality index improved or worsened since 2018? Was the pollution much less then compared to now?” the Chief Justice asked.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre and NCR states, cited data from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) showing that pollution levels had remained "more or less the same," except during the COVID-19 lockdown when industrial and vehicular activities were suspended. "Let the children celebrate for two days.

It is only for festivals like Diwali, Gurpurab, and Christmas," Mehta urged, adding that even limited celebration windows could be allowed.