As the festival season approaches, the Supreme Court of India has raised concerns over the selective enforcement of firecracker bans, particularly questioning why such restrictions are imposed only in Delhi-NCR and not across other parts of the country experiencing similar pollution levels.
Chief Justice’s Observations
According to The Hindu, Chief Justice BR Gavai emphasized that if citizens in Delhi-NCR are entitled to clean air, the same should apply to residents of other cities. He pointed out that during his visit to Amritsar last winter, the pollution levels were even worse than those in Delhi. The Chief Justice questioned the rationale behind implementing a firecracker ban solely in Delhi, suggesting that any such policy should be applied uniformly across the nation.
Legal Proceedings and Directions
In response to a plea seeking a nationwide ban on firecrackers, the Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The court’s observations come ahead of Diwali, a festival traditionally associated with the widespread use of firecrackers, which significantly contribute to air pollution.
Public Interest and Legal Precedents
Senior Advocate Aparajita Singh supported the Chief Justice’s remarks, highlighting that the affluent sections of society often take measures to protect themselves from pollution, such as leaving Delhi during high pollution periods. This underscores the need for policies that protect the health and well-being of all citizens, irrespective of their socio-economic status.
Final Thought
The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the urgency of addressing air pollution comprehensively. As the nation prepares for the upcoming festival season, the court’s stance may prompt a reevaluation of firecracker regulations to ensure equitable environmental protection across all regions.
