Delhi CM Seeks Supreme Court Approval for Green Firecrackers During Diwali: Balancing Tradition and Environment

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has appealed to the Supreme Court to permit green firecrackers during Diwali, arguing that the festival feels "incomplete" without fireworks. This appeal comes ahead of a formal hearing scheduled for Wednesday.

"Diwali is a festival of joy. Without fireworks, feels incomplete. At least green crackers should be permitted in Delhi," stated Gupta. She emphasized that her government's appeal aims to balance festive traditions with environmental concerns, particularly significant as Delhi typically experiences severe air pollution during the Diwali season.

The Delhi government plans to submit a formal written request to the Supreme Court, seeking permission specifically for 'green crackers' while pledging to adhere to pollution-control regulations.

"Diwali is the most significant festival in Indian culture," Gupta remarked. "Keeping in mind the sentiments of millions of Delhi residents, our government has urged the Supreme Court to allow the use of green firecrackers in Delhi during the festive period."

She further assured, "We fully support measures to protect the environment and will cooperate with any directions issued by the Supreme Court."

Under Gupta's proposal, only crackers certified by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute and Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation would receive approval, ensuring that toxic emissions remain within prescribed limits.

This development follows the court's recent decision to allow the manufacturing of 'green firecrackers' in the National Capital Region (NCR) while prohibiting their sale until further notice.

The Supreme Court has also requested a proposal, in consultation with stakeholders, to reconsider the absolute ban on firecracker manufacture and sales in the NCR. The bench observed that such a complete ban may not be "practical or ideal" and noted that enforcement efforts have been largely ineffective.

This represents a significant policy shift from the previous Aam Aadmi Party government, which had implemented a comprehensive ban on all types of firecrackers, including green variants, as part of its winter pollution mitigation strategy.

The BJP, previously in opposition and now leading the Delhi government, had criticized the AAP for 'hurting Hindu sentiments' and advocated for allowing eco-friendly celebration options during Diwali.

This change in stance under the BJP-led government indicates an effort to balance cultural festivities with environmental responsibility.

As the court prepares to hear this case, Delhi residents await the decision on whether 'green fireworks' will illuminate the city's Diwali celebrations this year.