Supreme Court relaxes absolute firecracker ban in NCR for Diwali; allows sale and use of green crackers

The Supreme Court partially modified its earlier blanket ban on firecrackers in the National Capital Region, allowing the sale and use of certified green crackers during Diwali. The Court observed that while pollution control remains paramount, completely prohibiting all firecrackers may not be proportionate if environmentally compliant alternatives exist. The Bench directed that only low-emission green crackers approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) may be used, and that authorities ensure strict quality checks and time limits for bursting.

The ruling seeks to balance citizens’ right to celebrate festivals with the imperative of protecting public health and environment. It also mandates accountability for state authorities to enforce regulations effectively. This judgment promotes responsible celebration and reinforces the principle of sustainable festivity under environmental jurisprudence.