Politics · India Bureau
Supreme Court rejects complete Diwali firecracker ban, to set usage hours
India's apex court has ruled against an outright prohibition on firecrackers during Diwali, instead signalling its intention to establish designated hours for their use. The decision aims to balance cultural traditions with environmental protection concerns.
LSN India ·
The Supreme Court of India has decided against imposing a total ban on firecrackers during the Diwali festival, opting instead for a regulated approach that permits their use within specified timeframes. The court's decision reflects an effort to accommodate religious and cultural sentiments while simultaneously addressing pollution-related concerns raised by environmental and public health advocates.
The court indicated it would determine appropriate hours for firecracker use following a detailed report from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This move suggests the judiciary is seeking scientific input on air quality impacts and timing considerations before finalising the regulations.
The development comes amid long-standing tensions between those who view firecracker-bursting as an integral part of Diwali celebrations and environmentalists who point to the significant spike in air pollution during the festival season. Major cities across India, particularly Delhi and its National Capital Region, experience hazardous air quality levels immediately following Diwali festivities.
By setting restricted timings rather than enforcing a complete prohibition, the court appears to be attempting a middle-ground approach that acknowledges both perspectives. The CPCB's recommendations are expected to provide the technical foundation for establishing these permitted hours when the court issues its final directions.
The decision maintains the possibility of stricter measures being introduced based on pollution data and public health assessments, though a blanket firecracker ban has been explicitly ruled out by the court.