On April 3, 2025, the Supreme Court imposed a complete ban on the manufacture, sale, storage, and use of firecrackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).
The ban was enforced because partial restrictions were ineffective, as firecrackers could be stockpiled and used during prohibited periods.
The Supreme Court questioned the selective regional enforcement of the ban and indicated that air pollution requires a pan-India policy.
The court highlighted that air pollution levels in cities outside Delhi, such as Amritsar, have at times exceeded those in Delhi during winter festivals.
The court emphasized that uniform national action is necessary to address air pollution and also noted the economic impact on workers in the firecracker industry.
The matter has been listed for further hearing in two weeks, and the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has been directed to submit a report.