The Supreme Court has permitted certified manufacturers of green crackers to produce these crackers in the Delhi-NCR region, provided they do not sell them within the NCR. These manufacturers must hold valid permits from the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
The Court’s directive came on September 26, when it asked the Centre to reconsider the complete ban on firecracker manufacturing in Delhi-NCR after consulting all stakeholders. The Court stated that manufacturers with NEERI and PESO certifications can continue production but must give an undertaking not to sell the crackers in prohibited areas until further orders. This order was passed by a bench including Chief Justice BR Gavai, Justice K Vinod Chandran, and Justice NV Anjaria, with the case set for further hearing on October 8.
The Court noted that a total ban may not be practical, pointing out that the absolute ban on mining in Bihar had led to illegal activities. It urged the government to adopt a balanced approach after consulting the Delhi government, manufacturers, and sellers, emphasizing the need for a workable solution.
