Firecracker Ban Throughout the Year: SC Tells Delhi Government
Share
The Supreme Court of India has instructed the Delhi government to consider implementing a firecracker ban throughout the year. The court highlighted the citizens rights to a pollution-free environment and questioned the effectiveness of previous bans. This decision comes amidst growing concerns over pollution levels in the national capital.
The Supreme Court observed that every citizen has the fundamental right to a pollution-free environment, protected by Article 21 of Constitution. The court stated that no religion promotes activities that cause pollution and that if firecrackers are burnt in that manner, it affects the fundamental right to health of citizens.
The Delhi government had previously imposed a ban on the sale, storage, and manufacture of firecrackers from October 14 to January 1. However, the ban was largely ignored, and firecrackers were still sold and burst during Diwali. The Supreme Courts recent directive highlights the necessity for stricter enforcement measures.
The Supreme Court has directed the Delhi government to take a decision on extension of the ban by November 25th. Additionally, the court has ordered the Delhi Police Commissioner to form a special cell to enforce a ban, making each station house officer (SHO) accountable for its implementation.
The Delhi government and Delhi Police have blamed each other for the failure to enforce the firecracker ban effectively. The government stated that it had passed an order banning firecrackers and the enforcement was the polices responsibility. Conversely, the police contended that the ban was imposed too late when the market was already flooded with firecrackers.
If implemented, the all-year firecracker ban could greatly lower air pollution levels in Delhi, which often spike during festive seasons due to the burning of firecrackers. The ban might also encourage other areas in India to take similar measures to combat pollution.
The publics response to the proposed all-year ban has been mixed. Some citizens support the initiative, emphasizing the need of cleaner air and better public health. Others contend that firecrackers are an integral part of cultural and religious festivities and that a complete ban would be too extreme.
The Supreme Court’s directive highlights the need of balancing cultural traditions with environmental concerns. The decision on the all-year firecracker ban will have major implications for public health and the environment in Delhi across India. It will be crucial for the Delhi government to collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the ban.
As the Delhi government deliberates on the Supreme Court’s directive, the focus remains on achieving a balance between cultural traditions. It will also focus on the imperative need for a pollution-free environment. The outcome of this decision will likely influence similar measures in other parts of India. The firecracker ban will set a critical precedent for tackling pollution through regulatory interventions.
Newsletter
Stay up to date with all the latest News that affects you in politics, finance and more.