Supreme Court Directs Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana To Impose Firecracker Ban, Follow Delhi’s Example

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New Delhi: In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court on Tuesday instructed the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana to follow Delhi’s lead and impose a complete ban on firecrackers within one month. The court’s directive came during a hearing concerning air pollution in Delhi and aimed at curbing the harmful effects of firecracker-related pollution in the region.

A bench of Justices Abhay Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan emphasized that the states must issue similar directions under Section 5 of the Environment Protection Act (EPA). “Delhi has filed an affidavit of compliance by which a complete ban on manufacturing, storage, etc., has been imposed. We direct Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana to issue similar directions under Section 5 of EPA. Such directions to be issued within 1 month,” the bench stated.

Section 5 of the EPA empowers the government to issue orders to regulate environmental pollution, including measures to control hazardous activities. The court stressed the need for strict enforcement, directing the states to ensure the “scrupulous implementation” of the firecracker ban. Additionally, it mandated the creation of a grievance redressal mechanism to address violations.

The court further emphasized the importance of public awareness, instructing the states to periodically publicize the ban and the penalties imposed under Section 5 of the EPA.

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