New Delhi: Supreme Court Extends Firecracker Ban Nationwide, Urges Collaboration on Air Pollution

NEW DELHI: In a recent development, the Supreme Court of India has clarified that its directives to prohibit the use of banned chemicals in firecrackers extend beyond the Delhi-NCR region and encompass the entire country. This clarification was made during a hearing regarding an application that sought to compel the state of Rajasthan to adhere to the court's order, which bans specific firecrackers to reduce both air and noise pollution.

The petitioner addressing the Supreme Court expressed a common misconception that the court's orders exclusively applied to the Delhi-NCR area, while in reality, these directives are intended to be applicable throughout India. In response to this, the Supreme Court directed Rajasthan to acknowledge and enforce its previous order, emphasizing the need for all states to take measures to mitigate air pollution, especially during festive seasons. The court underscored the importance of raising public awareness and sensitizing people to the issue.

Justice MM Sundresh pointed out that there is a prevalent misunderstanding that the responsibility for managing air and sound pollution rests solely with the court. He highlighted that it is the collective duty of everyone to address these environmental concerns.

The Supreme Court did not limit its scrutiny to individual states but also criticized both the central and state governments for engaging in a "blame-game" regarding the escalating air pollution crisis in Delhi and neighboring regions. As air quality in the national capital and nearby states continues to deteriorate, the court expressed frustration with the lack of cohesive action and the tendency to assign blame rather than take concrete steps to combat the problem.

Justice Sundresh remarked that there appears to be a tendency to shift responsibility, with each entity attempting to pass the blame, saying, "We see there is a blame game, everyone is trying to pass (the reason) on...this is the reason, that is the reason." It is evident that the court is concerned about the lack of concerted efforts in addressing air pollution.

However, the court refrained from making further comments on the issue of stubble burning, as this matter is slated to be addressed by the Supreme Court later in the day.

This recent development highlights the Supreme Court's commitment to addressing environmental concerns on a national scale. By extending the ban on certain firecrackers to all states, the court emphasizes the need for collaborative action and a shared responsibility in managing air and sound pollution. It also serves as a reminder that the fight against pollution is not limited to a single entity but requires the active participation and cooperation of all stakeholders.

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