Today, On 10th October, Supreme Court while hearing pleas to allow manufacturing and sale of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR said, “Some people perform morning puja and also burst crackers.” The Court has now reserved its verdict on the matter.
The Supreme Court of India upheld the ban on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR due to persistent high air pollution levels. Emphasizing the right to health under Article 21 of the Constitution, the court stated that alternatives like “green crackers” must prove minimal pollution before reconsideration. It recognized the severe pollution crisis as an extraordinary situation warranting the ban.
The Supreme Court of India on Thursday (19th Dec) expressed serious concerns over Delhi’s solid waste crisis, urging the Delhi government and the Municipal Corporation to submit a detailed affidavit outlining waste management compliance and fire prevention measures at illegal dumping sites. The Court highlighted the urgent need for corrective actions due to rising untreated waste levels.
On Monday(18th Nov), the Supreme Court heard a plea seeking the enforcement of measures to curb air pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih expressed serious concerns over delays in implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Justice Oka questioned the Delhi counsel, stating, “Why was the GRAP mechanism not invoked? How can you risk delaying such critical measures?” In response to the counsel’s clarification that stage 4 of GRAP was now in effect, the bench emphasized that the Delhi government must not lower it without court approval, even if the Air Quality Index (AQI) improves below 300. The bench remarked, “We are making it clear that you will not go below stage 4 without our permission.”
The Supreme Court, led by Justices Oka and Masih, today (14th Nov) scrutinized the Delhi government’s lack of action amid the city’s alarming air pollution levels, recently the worst globally. Concerns were raised regarding firecracker ban enforcement and stubble burning from neighboring states. A decision on a permanent firecracker ban is anticipated by November 25.
Today, On 4th November, the Supreme Court reprimanded the Delhi government and police for ineffective enforcement of the firecracker ban amid deteriorating air quality following Diwali. The court demanded immediate details on implemented measures and future plans, highlighting the need for stringent action to address pollution and ensure public safety during festivals.