Cracker Ban: SC seeks Govt’s reply to toddlers’ plea

New Delhi: Taking note of a PIL filed by three toddlers all aged between 6 and 14 urging it to ban the sale of firecrackers on Diwali and Dussehra stressing that a pollution free environment is their right, Supreme Court on Thursday sought the Centre and Delhi Government’s response.

In a petition filed through their fathers, petitioners Arjun Goyal, Aarav Bhandari and Zoya Rao Bhasin of Delhi urged the court to restrain government agencies from issuing license for sale of crackers in the city.

Citing a study conducted in Bengaluru, where awareness about restricting the use of crackers has yielded great results, the plea said the widespread use of firecrackers in Delhi during the festive season virtually clogs the atmosphere, substantially increases the pollution level and magnifies the risk of contracting lung diseases.
“Our lungs have not yet fully developed and we cannot take further pollution through bursting of crackers,” said three infants in their petition.
The petitioner alleged that despite the top court’s instructions on the sale of loud firecrackers, concerned authorities have failed to take adequate measures. They also alleged that over the last two years, Delhi has retained the unique distinction of being the most polluted city in the world which resulted in death of over 7 lakh.
Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu also expressed concern over the issue. However, the bench which is headed by Mr. Dattu declined to pass any order to ban cracker’s sale.

The bench has fixed 16th October for the two governments to respond. SC also issued notices to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Delhi Pollution Control Board (DPCB).