On April 3, 2025, the Supreme Court of India declined to lift the ban on the manufacture, storage, and sale of firecrackers in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), extending the prohibition until December 2025. The bench, comprising Justices A.S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan, emphasized the severe air pollution levels in Delhi and highlighted the adverse effects on individuals who cannot afford air purifiers. They stated that the right to health and a pollution-free environment is an integral part of Article 21 of the Constitution.
The court also noted that banning firecrackers only during Diwali would be ineffective, as people might purchase and store them in advance. Regarding the potential economic impact on firecracker manufacturers and sellers, the justices pointed out that the ban is limited to Delhi-NCR, allowing sales in other parts of the country to continue.
Additionally, the court addressed the issue of ‘green crackers,’ which are designed to be less polluting. It referenced a study by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute indicating that green crackers reduce particulate matter by approximately 30%. The bench concluded that unless it is demonstrated that green crackers cause minimal pollution, no relaxation can be granted.
This decision underscores the Supreme Court’s commitment to addressing air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region and prioritizing public health over commercial interests.
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