Supreme Court to Hear Green Cracker Plea Amidst Delhi Diwali Pollution Debate

The Supreme Court is currently addressing the contentious issue of green crackers for Diwali celebrations in Delhi-NCR, keeping the pollution debate alive. The apex court is hearing petitions that seek permission for the use of certified green crackers during the festive season. This development follows a request by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to defer the case hearing.

The Delhi government, through Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, had previously announced its intention to appeal to the Supreme Court for the allowance of certified green crackers. Firecracker manufacturers have also filed petitions advocating for a relaxation of the existing ban, arguing for their right to livelihood.

Senior advocate Balbir Singh stressed the need for the case to be heard before Diwali to strike a balance between the economic well-being of workers and citizens right to a clean environment.

The Court had previously, on 26th September, permitted certified manufacturers to produce green crackers, accredited by Niri and Pesso, but restricted their sale in prohibited areas of Delhi-NCR. The bench has consistently emphasized that extreme measures can lead to unforeseen problems, noting that total bans have historically fostered illegal markets.

It underscored the necessity of a balanced approach to pollution control, alongside allowing regulated production and consulting all stakeholders, including the Delhi government, manufacturers, and sellers, before reaching a final decision. The central question remains whether Delhi’s Diwali will see green crackers this year.