Supreme Court Allows Sale of Green Firecrackers in Delhi-NCR with Strict Conditions
In a significant move ahead of the festive season, the Supreme Court of India has relaxed its earlier blanket prohibition on firecrackers and permitted the sale and use of green firecrackers in the Delhi–National Capital Region (NCR) under strict conditions.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran allowed the sale of green firecrackers between October 18 and October 21, specifying that sales can take place only at designated locations. The court also restricted their use to limited time slots — from 6–7 AM and 8–10 PM.
Importantly, the sale of firecrackers through e-commerce platforms will remain strictly prohibited, the Bench clarified.
Court’s Rationale Behind the Decision
Explaining the reasoning, the Supreme Court observed that a total ban on firecrackers had unintended consequences, including the smuggling of conventional firecrackers that are more harmful to air quality.
“Conventional firecrackers are smuggled, which causes more damage. We have to take a balanced approach,”
the Bench remarked.
Earlier, on April 3, 2025, a Division Bench of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan had imposed a year-long ban on the manufacture, storage, sale, and use of firecrackers in Delhi, citing worsening air quality. However, the latest judgment marks a policy shift toward regulated use rather than a complete prohibition.
Petitioners’ Arguments
The petitions were filed by the Federation of Fireworks Traders, the Association of Fireworks (Haryana), and the Indic Collective Trust. They argued that the previous ban was arbitrary and not supported by scientific evidence.
According to them, stubble burning and vehicular emissions are the primary causes of Delhi’s winter pollution, not firecrackers. They also contended that a regulated approach toward certified green firecrackers would be more effective.
Role of NEERI and PESO
In September 2025, the Supreme Court had already allowed manufacturers certified by NEERI (National Environmental Engineering Research Institute) and PESO (Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation) to resume production of green firecrackers.
However, sales within NCR were still restricted pending the government’s proposal for a balanced regulatory framework.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) later informed the court that enforcement gaps continued to exist, including cases where QR codes meant for certified products were being sold to unauthorized manufacturers.
A Step Toward Balance
With this order, the Supreme Court aims to balance environmental concerns with cultural traditions, ensuring that the celebration of Diwali and other festivals can continue without severely impacting air quality.
Authorities are now expected to closely monitor the sale and use of green firecrackers across NCR to ensure strict compliance with the Court’s directions.
