Supreme Court Signals Curbs on Diwali Crackers

The Supreme Court has indicated that a complete ban on firecrackers may not be the only approach for controlling pollution during Diwali. The court has stressed the need for a balanced approach while considering the environmental and public-health concerns associated with firecracker use.

The court has also made it clear that bursting firecrackers throughout the day will not be permitted. It may prescribe specific time windows for the use of permitted firecrackers, keeping air pollution and the health concerns of children, senior citizens and people with illnesses in mind. Earlier Supreme Court directions have also restricted firecracker use to specified time periods.