SC asks why firecracker ban only limited to Delhi-NCR

New Delhi

The Supreme Court questioned why the firecracker ban applies only to Delhi-NCR, stressing that clean air is a right for all citizens, not just for residents of the capital. Chief Justice of India observed that pollution in cities like Amritsar is often worse than Delhi and said, “If firecrackers are to be banned, the ban should be across the country, not just in Delhi because they are considered elite.”

Amicus curiae Aparajita Singh pointed out that elites often escape Delhi’s pollution by moving elsewhere, while ordinary citizens continue to suffer. The bench then asked the Centre, represented by Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, to provide a report from the Commission for Air Quality Management on the issue.

Bhati informed the court that the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) was working on developing green crackers with lower emissions. Lawyers representing firecracker manufacturers suggested that NEERI should specify permissible chemical compositions so the industry could adjust its products accordingly.

However, senior advocate K Parameshwar raised concerns that while regulations were being debated, authorities were also cancelling existing licences of manufacturers, causing uncertainty. In response, the bench clarified that there would be status quo regarding licence cancellations until further orders.

The court underlined that a national policy was needed rather than region-specific measures and listed the matter for further hearing on September 22. The judges said tackling pollution requires uniform rules so that people across the country can equally enjoy their right to clean air.