'Strict Action Needed': SC Pulls Up Delhi Govt, Police For Not Implementing Firecracker Ban

Delhi Air Pollution: Expressing concern over Delhi's high pollution levels during Diwali , the Supreme Court on Monday sought explanations from the Delhi government and the city’s police commissioner regarding actions taken to enforce the firecracker ban. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih referred to newspaper reports that revealed widespread non-compliance with the court's firecracker restrictions.

Delhi Government and Police Ordered to Submit Detailed Reports

The apex court therefore demanded a detailed report from the Delhi government and Delhi police on steps undertaken to implement the ban and the specific actions taken against those who violated the orders. 

"We want all the orders to be placed on record banning the sale, manufacture and bursting of firecrackers in Delhi. 

We are also issuing notice to the Delhi police commissioner on the action police has taken against the violators and the steps it is taking to implement the orders of the court," the bench said.

One-Week Deadline for Responses; Focus on Weather and Pollution

The bench directed that responses from both the Delhi government and the police commissioner be filed within a week. 

Citing a report from the Centre for Science and Environment, the court also highlighted that Diwali 2024 experienced warmer temperatures than the previous two years, suggesting that weather changes may have worsened air quality.

Punjab and Haryana Asked to Report on Stubble Burning Controls

In a broader scope, the bench asked the Punjab and Haryana governments to submit their responses by November 14, detailing actions taken to control stubble burning, which significantly contributed to pollution during the last week of October.

Strict Action Considered for Future Compliance

The Supreme Court indicated that strict action, such as sealing the premises of violators, might be necessary to ensure compliance with the firecracker ban.

Warning that it would consider additional measures to enforce the ban in 2025, the court underscored the need for stronger action to protect public health.

Advocate Raises Concerns on Implementation of Ban

On hearing in the Supreme Court regarding air pollution, Advocate HS Phoolka said, "The Supreme Court has taken very seriously the fact that the ban on burning firecrackers during Diwali has not been implemented. The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Police Commissioner and asked him to file an affidavit and explain why this ban was not implemented. The hearing of this case will now be held on November 11."

Long-Standing Ban Struggles with Widespread Violations

The Supreme Court's concerns stemmed from rising air pollution in Delhi, particularly during the Diwali season when firecrackers and crop stubble burning in neighboring states contribute heavily to the smog. 

A long-standing firecracker ban in Delhi aims to reduce these harmful emissions, yet widespread violations continue to impact air quality each year.