Supreme Court On Diwali Firecrackers: No Blanket Ban, But Strict Rules On Use
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Firecrackers will not face a blanket nationwide ban during Diwali, but their use is likely to be subject to specific restrictions, the Supreme Court observed on Wednesday while hearing a matter concerning firecracker use and pollution.
The court said a complete ban could affect religious sentiments, but allowing firecrackers to be burst throughout the day could have serious consequences for public health. The bench indicated that a balance would have to be found between people's religious practices and concerns related to air and noise pollution.
Court Seeks Fixed Hours For Firecrackers
Justice M.M. Sundresh said the court was not in favour of imposing a complete ban across the country. At the same time, the court made it clear that people cannot be permitted to burst firecrackers continuously for 24 hours.
The court is considering a framework under which firecrackers could be used only during specified hours. It is also expected to examine which types of firecrackers should be permitted and which should remain restricted.
The objective, according to the court's observations, is to reduce pollution while allowing people to celebrate the festival.
CPCB, Centre Asked To Test Barium And Noise Levels
The Supreme Court has also given the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Centre time to conduct further tests on the presence of barium in firecrackers.
The court has also sought testing of firecrackers to determine their actual sound levels in decibels. The findings will help the court assess the potential health impact of both air and noise pollution associated with fireworks.
The Supreme Court has previously dealt with restrictions on firecrackers, including the use of permitted “green crackers” and restrictions on barium-containing fireworks.
Next Hearing On October 15
The matter will be taken up again on October 15, when the CPCB and Centre are expected to place their test results and reports before the court.
The latest observations come ahead of Diwali and amid continuing concerns over the impact of fireworks on air quality, noise pollution and vulnerable groups, including children, elderly people and those with health conditions.
