The court is hearing a long-pending matter concerning restrictions on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR during the period of severe air pollution in the winter months, which coincides with several festivals.
The Supreme Court on Monday said it would adopt a “balanced approach” while considering the issue of firecracker use, adding that it would not hurt religious sentiments. During the hearing, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant-led bench said there was still sufficient time to appeal to people and consider restricting the use of firecrackers to specific hours.
The court stressed the need for a practical approach to the issue, while also underlining the importance of public awareness and civic responsibility. The hearing comes amid the ongoing debate over the use of firecrackers and the need to balance religious practices with wider public concerns. The court indicated that there was time to explore a practical solution, including limiting the hours during which firecrackers could be used.
On September 30, at another similar hearing, a bench of justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale indicated that it was inclined to accept a suggestion to permit firecrackers, but subject to conditions.
Chief Justice Surya Kant had earlier made an observation that the moment Supreme Court decides to ban the firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, people will start bursting them during daytime.
The proceedings arise from a 2015 case in which the Supreme Court has issued a series of directions regulating the manufacture, sale and use of firecrackers, particularly in view of deteriorating air quality in Delhi and neighbouring regions.
