‘Orders becoming a mockery’: Supreme Court pulls up Delhi government over firecracker curbs

The Supreme Court on Thursday pulled up the Delhi government and the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for not adequately enforcing curbs on the sale and use of firecrackers, but reiterated its position that a complete ban was not the solution to the problem of pollution during the festive season.

The top court indicated that it was likely to allow the sale and bursting of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for a limited period on specified days this Diwali, though it reserved its order on a fresh interim arrangement. It noted that the three-day relaxation granted for the festival in October 2025 was a one-time measure that could not automatically be extended. Diwali falls on November 8 this year.

A bench of justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale spoke about the public sentiment attached to Diwali celebrations but stressed that authorities could not use festive enthusiasm as an excuse for failing to enforce firecracker restrictions.

We also understand the sentiment of the public. Somebody wants to celebrate. Therefore, we are not inclined to impose a complete ban because, again, it will have a spiralling effect. But then, having said that, please don’t push us to take a very harsh stand on this matter,” the bench observed, pointing out that the authorities must demonstrate tangible action rather than merely promise better enforcement.