New Delhi, October 29, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its order on restrictions on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR during Diwali, observing that repeated judicial directions had failed to ensure compliance and calling for innovative measures to tackle air pollution.
A Bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and Prasanna B. Varale said the issue required intervention at a higher level, noting that despite annual judicial orders, violations continued to outnumber instances of compliance.
“Every year, we pass orders on the issue. For us, it has now become an academic exercise. Our orders are violated more often than they are followed,” the Bench led by Justice Sundresh observed, stressing the need to explore new approaches rather than relying solely on restrictions.
During the hearing, the apex court suggested involving prominent public figures, particularly sportspersons, in campaigns to raise awareness about the harmful effects of firecrackers and encourage responsible Diwali celebrations.
“Why can’t you use the services of prominent personalities to make the public aware, like the sportsmen, or the public figures who are highly respected, from any walk of life?” the court asked.
Referring to Indian cricketer Virat Kohli as an example, the Bench suggested that celebrated personalities could be requested to appeal to people to celebrate the festival in a manner that protects public health and the environment.
The court also emphasised the need to sensitise children and young people, suggesting that educational institutions be involved in spreading awareness about pollution and its consequences.
Observing that a complete ban on firecrackers might not be the most appropriate course, the Supreme Court cautioned that an excessively harsh approach could have wider repercussions.
It reiterated the need for a balanced approach that respects the festive spirit while safeguarding public health. The Bench also stressed that effective enforcement would be crucial, warning that judicial directions would become a “mockery” if authorities failed to implement them on the ground.
The apex court asked the Union government to file an affidavit detailing the measures taken to enforce the restrictions.
The matter concerns restrictions on the sale and use of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, where the Supreme Court has repeatedly intervened over concerns about deteriorating air quality during the festive season.
Last year, the court had permitted the limited sale and use of green crackers in Delhi-NCR on a trial basis, subject to stringent safeguards.
A Bench comprising then Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, now retired, and Justice K. Vinod Chandran had allowed the sale of approved green crackers from October 18 to October 20, 2025. Their use was restricted to specified morning and evening hours on the day before Diwali and on the festival day.
The court had directed that only licensed traders could sell approved products bearing QR codes and prohibited online sales of firecrackers. It had also ordered the monitoring of air, water and soil quality to assess the impact of the limited relaxation.
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