The Supreme Court has made a significant clarification regarding the use of firecrackers in India. In its 2021 order, the court stated that only green firecrackers should be used, and this rule applies not only to Delhi-NCR but to the entire country. The bench emphasized that it is the responsibility of every individual to protect the environment.
The clarification came during a hearing on a petition seeking the Rajasthan government’s compliance with the court’s orders to ban firecrackers containing barium salts and other pollutants. The bench, comprising Justices AS Bopanna and MM Sundresh, emphasized that no new directions were required as the Supreme Court orders are binding nationwide. The court urged Rajasthan to adhere to its previous directives on the matter.
In 2021, the Supreme Court allowed the use of firecrackers but prohibited those containing barium salts. The court expressed concern over the blatant violation of this rule and warned that officials at various levels would be held personally responsible for any lapses.
In 2018, the court also set specific time slots for bursting firecrackers, allowing them to be used between 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali, and between 11:55 pm and 12:30 am for New Year and Christmas celebrations.
During the hearing, the bench emphasized that the court had already issued orders to minimize and prevent air and noise pollution during festivals. These orders are applicable to every state, including Rajasthan, and the court urged Rajasthan to take all necessary steps to minimize pollution, not only during the festival season but also beyond.
The lawyer representing Rajasthan acknowledged the need for citizens to reduce their use of firecrackers on Diwali. The bench further highlighted that it is primarily adults, not children, who are responsible for bursting firecrackers. The court also dispelled the perception that curbing pollution and protecting the environment is solely the court’s duty, asserting that it is a collective responsibility.
In a separate hearing on pollution in Delhi, where the Air Quality Index exceeded 400, the Supreme Court emphasized that the issue should not be politicized and that the poor air quality is detrimental to people’s health.
The court’s clarification on the use of green firecrackers across the country reinforces the importance of environmental protection and aims to curb pollution during festive periods.
