New Delhi: The Supreme Court, addressing concerns over severe air pollution, observed on Monday that no religious belief endorses practices contributing to air pollution. The court emphasized the need for stringent measures to curb pollution, directing the Delhi government to make a decision on a permanent cracker ban in the national capital by November 25.Highlighting the constitutional right to a pollution-free environment under Article 21, the bench—comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih—remarked, The right to live in a pollution-free atmosphere is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. Prima facie, we are of the view that no religion promotes any activity that promotes pollution or compromises with the health of the people.Special Cell to Enforce Ban on FirecrackersThe court has ordered the Delhi Police to form a dedicated cell specifically to enforce the cracker ban, placing the onus on Station House Officers (SHOs) to ensure effective implementation. As per the Supreme Courts directions, the Delhi Police Commissioner is to submit an affidavit by November 25, detailing whether notifications have been issued to all firecracker manufacturers about the ban and outlining measures taken to curb online firecracker sales. The bench expressed discontent with the Delhi polices prior lack of commitment, stating, “We direct the Delhi police commissioner to form a special cell to ensure effective implementation of the ban on firecrackers.Inquiry into Delayed Ban ImplementationThe Supreme Court questioned why the Delhi government delayed imposing the cracker ban until October 14, despite the escalating pollution concerns. The court has also directed states within the National Capital Region (NCR) to report on their respective efforts to mitigate air pollution, ensuring a unified approach to tackling the issue.Dire Pollution Levels in DelhiDelhis air quality continued to deteriorate on Monday morning, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 349 in the very poor range. Some locations, such as Bawana and Jahangirpuri, reported AQI levels of 401 and 412, respectively, both in the severe category, underscoring the urgency of decisive action to curb pollution.
