Supreme Court Emphasises Firecracker Enforcement Over New Bans

The Supreme Court stated on Thursday that it is not inclined to completely ban firecrackers, emphasizing that issuing yearly orders is ineffective unless authorities properly enforce them on the ground.

Court Observations and Hearings

A bench comprising Justices M M Sundresh and Prasanna B Varale made the remarks while hearing petitions related to air pollution and firecracker bursting in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). The proceedings covered a suo motu case on NCR air pollution—addressing stubble burning, solid waste management, and firecrackers—along with a separate plea concerning the manufacturing of firecrackers.

• Enforcement Focus: The bench remarked that passing directives without ground implementation makes the process a mockery, stressing that authorities must regulate the issue seriously.
• Public Sentiment: Acknowledging public sentiments, the court stated it is not inclined to impose a complete ban but warned against pushing the judiciary toward taking a harsher stance.
• Balance Sought: The court noted that a middle ground must be found by specifying permissible hours for firecracker use, adding that cooperation from everyone is necessary.

Submissions by Authorities and Amicus Curiae

Additional Solicitor-General Aishwarya Bhati outlined measures taken by the Delhi government and the Commission for Air Quality Management to combat seasonal air pollution.

• Scheduled Curbs: Bhati reported that measures taking effect from November include restrictions on older vehicles, curbs on construction and demolition activities, and staggered office timings.
• Barium Consultation: The Centre informed the bench that internal consultations regarding the use of barium in firecrackers are ongoing, with Bhati requesting three weeks for completion.
• Amicus Curiae Concerns: An advocate assisting the court as an amicus curiae highlighted that bursting firecrackers releases hazardous particulate matter harmful to lungs and organs. She noted a spike in the Air Quality Index (AQI) during Dussehra and flagged the lack of a proper mechanism to verify if sold firecrackers are genuine green crackers.

Practical Implications and Verification

Citizens and stakeholders in the Delhi-NCR region can monitor official announcements from the Supreme Court, the Commission for Air Quality Management, and the Delhi government regarding upcoming anti-pollution regulations effective in November. Official court orders and verified news reports provide direct means to verify these judicial proceedings.