The Supreme Court on labeling it as mere “eyewash’ and sharply criticized the Delhi police for inadequately enforcing the firecracker ban in the capital, stating that only seizing raw materials falls short of comprehensive action. The top court questioned the Delhi government’s delay in enforcing the firecracker ban, noting that the ban order was issued well before October 14. 

“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 health of the people,” PTI quoted the bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih.

The court further instructed Delhi Police to set up a dedicated unit to enforce the firecracker ban and to hold local police heads accountable for implementing the order issued by the Delhi government on October 14.

The bench ordered the Delhi Police Commissioner to submit a report by November 25, detailing whether all firecracker manufacturers had been formally notified of the ban. The court also requested information on measures taken to prevent the online sale of firecrackers. The apex court instructed the Delhi police commissioner to promptly notify all stakeholders of the ban and ensure a halt to firecracker sale and production.

The Supreme Court noted that the Delhi police had not treated the order with adequate seriousness.