The Supreme Court on Thursday (October 29, 2026) said its orders, year after year, to curb and even ban firecrackers during Deepavali, had been violated “left and right”.
Justice Sundresh said the incessant bursting of firecrackers takes a toll on the health of a large section of the population, including children, the aged, the sick, pregnant women, and specially-abled persons. “The problem might have started with gun powder,” the judge said.
The court was hearing a case on the increase in pollution as the festival drew near amidst the loud bangs of firecrackers. The court asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, for the Centre and the Delhi government, to ensure enforcement against sellers of spurious and banned crackers who want to draw maximum profit from the seasonal business. “Traders will go by supply and demand… Your officers will have to forget their personal celebrations.
The court also empathised with officers’ hesitations to book criminal cases against ordinary people who were “enthusiastic” about celebrations. Justice Sundresh said the court was not in favour of a complete ban. They have to go out and see what is happening on the ground… So far, what are the measures you have taken… Show us your enforcement data… Be very serious in giving effect to our orders,” the judge said.
