‘India need not choose between two extremes: a blanket ban on firecrackers and unrestricted use. Regulation can be designed to prevent harm while respecting lawful celebration’ | Photo Credit: B.
Velankanni Raj The smoke that wafts through our celebrations carries a hidden cost. How can society preserve the joy of celebration without compromising the right to breathe clean air?On October 12, the Supreme Court’s suo motu hearing on air pollution in Delhi-NCR brought firecracker restrictions, religious sentiments, and public health into focus.
Citing enforcement difficulties, the Bench cautioned against a blanket ban and emphasised public awareness and voluntary restraint to encourage the use of less-polluting alternatives. Published - November 03, 2026 12:20 am IST