SC confirms complete ban on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, Pg 2

Key Highlights

Supreme Court Verdict on Crackers Ban

• The SC confirmed a complete ban on sale, production, and manufacture of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, terming it "absolutely necessary".

• Rejected pleas to limit the ban to 3–4 months/year, stating crackers would be stored and misused during prohibited periods.

Rationale for Ban

• Cited “horrible” levels of air pollution in the region.

• Continuous violation of earlier orders and reports confirming the high pollution load from crackers.

• Noted air pollution disproportionately affects street workers and those unable to afford air purifiers.

Green Crackers: Conditional Review

• SC acknowledged that ‘green crackers’ emit 30% less pollutants, but required scientific proof of minimum pollution levels.

• If proven, the court may rethink earlier bans.

Right to Clean Air & Public Health

• Reiterated Right to Clean Air as part of Right to Health under Article 21 of the Constitution.

• Emphasised the responsibility of the State to protect this right, especially for vulnerable groups.

Implementation Directions

• Directed Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan to ban online sale of crackers, file compliance in 2 weeks.

• Ordered NCR States to set up effective machinery to monitor compliance, violators, and ensure enforcement.

• Asked States to place public records of actions taken on official websites.

India-specific Angle

• Delhi-NCR is one of the world’s most polluted regions; SC’s firm stance reaffirms judiciary’s commitment to environmental justice.

• Brings focus on balancing economic interests of manufacturers with health and sustainability priorities.

Mains Mock Question:

"Discuss the role of judiciary in enforcing environmental rights in India with reference to recent rulings on firecracker bans. How can judicial activism align with sustainable development goals?"