[Tryst with the Constitution] Judicial orders and firecrackers: Rethinking the constitutional response to pollution

Judicial Orders and Firecrackers: Rethinking the Constitutional Response to Pollution

The months of October and November mark the celebration of Dussehra and Diwali, and with it, the Supreme Court's orders addressing Delhi's pollution crisis.

As Diwali approaches, a familiar sequence is set to unfold: the Court's recent remarks hint at permitting "green crackers" while reiterating prohibitions on conventional ones, reflecting an annual rhythm of judicial direction, administrative uncertainty, and public indifference.

Both the Union and State governments have initiated measures to coordinate their responses to Delhi's air crisis, yet the persistence of winter smog suggests these efforts have not translated into lasting institutional solutions.

The Court’s recent remarks hinting at the permission to use “green crackers” while reiterating earlier prohibitions on conventional ones reflects an annual rhythm of judicial direction, administrative uncertainty and public indifference.

Author's summary: Pollution crisis persists despite efforts.

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Bar and Bench Bar and Bench — 2025-10-17

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