New Delhi: In a groundbreaking verdict, the Supreme Court of India has unleashed a nationwide firecracker ban, casting a shadow over festive celebrations. This historic decision declares that the directives aimed at curtailing the usage of barium and other prohibited chemicals in fireworks are not confined to Delhi-NCR but extend to every corner of the nation.Explosive verdict resonatesThis momentous verdict emanated from the apex court during a hearing related to the firecracker issue in the state of Rajasthan. The highest court of the land has left no room for ambiguity as it mandates all state governments to undertake appropriate actions to combat the twin demons of air and noise pollution.Rajasthan under the gaze of justiceWhile delivering the verdict, the Supreme Court unequivocally conveyed that fresh directives are unnecessary for the state of Rajasthan. Instead, it emphasized that the state must conscientiously heed the existing orders that encapsulate measures to mitigate and avert air and noise pollution.National application of the lawThe formidable bench consisting of Justice A S Bopanna and Justice M M Sundresh stressed that the past orders emanating from the court resonate with potency, making them universally binding for every state across the nation. The Supreme Court boldly underscored that the responsibility of environmental stewardship does not solely rest on the shoulders of the judiciary it is a collective duty.A call to every citizenThe court reiterated a crucial message: safeguarding the environment is not the duty of a select few it is a shared obligation of every citizen. As the nation prepares to celebrate Diwali, the Supreme Court fervently advocated for an environmentally conscious approach to the festival, imploring the public to embrace a quieter and cleaner Diwali.Legacy of previous directivesIt is worth recalling that in 2021, the Supreme Court issued a series of directives aimed at eradicating banned chemicals from fireworks ahead of Diwali. The bench also emphasized that only firecrackers containing barium salts were prohibited, making way for green crackers as prescribed in the courts 2018 directions.Elders in the spotlightThe Supreme Courts recent hearing on November 7, 2023, unveiled an intriguing observation: elders have become more enthusiastic firecracker enthusiasts compared to children. Acknowledging this trend, the court directed the state of Rajasthan to expeditiously implement measures to combat pollution, particularly in the city of Udaipur.Barium battles deniedOn September 22, the Supreme Court quashed a plea seeking permission for the manufacturing, sale, and use of firecrackers containing barium chemicals, extinguishing any hope of their return.This landmark decision from the Supreme Court sets a new precedent for environmental responsibility, reshaping the narrative of Diwali celebrations across the country. As the nation gears up for festivities, it will be a Diwali like no other, illuminated by the spirit of eco-consciousness.
