Supreme Court Expresses Concern Over Illegal Sale of Firecrackers in Delhi

The Supreme Court on Monday permitted people in Delhi to burst only green firecrackers on November 7 and 8, between 6 am and 7 am and from 8 pm to 10 pm, in view of Diwali. However, reports in local media claimed that traders were selling all kinds of firecrackers in the national capital, allegedly in violation of the court’s restrictions. Taking note of these reports on Tuesday, the court expressed concern and asked the Centre to examine the matter. Referring to a photograph published in the media, the court observed that firecrackers of various categories, including licensed and unlicensed products and those without QR codes, were reportedly available in the market despite its directions permitting only green crackers.

The Supreme Court said the restrictions were imposed to control pollution in the Delhi-NCR region, but expressed displeasure over reports that they were not being properly implemented on the ground. It warned that allowing the sale and use of all types of firecrackers could aggravate the pollution problem in the national capital. The court also observed that individuals have the right to follow religious customs and practices, but clarified that such practices must remain within the limits prescribed by the Constitution.