'Ban a mere eyewash': SC raps Delhi government, police for comprehensive cracker ban failure
The Supreme Court has severely criticised the Delhi government and police for failing of enforcing comprehensive cracker ban during Diwali. The top court questioned that why there wasn't a permanent ban on the firecrackers and only it was banned for a few months when the pollution menace is an year round issue in the national capital. The court came down heavily on state government
"No religion encourages any activity which creates pollution. If firecrackers are burnt in this fashion, it also affects the fundamental right to health of the citizens," the court observed.
The Supreme Court has ordered Delhi police commissioner to form a special cell to ensure effective implementation of the ban on the fire crackers. The court has also directed commissioner to file affidavit the steps taken by them to ensure ban is in effect.
"We direct Delhi police commissioner to form a special cell to ensure effective implementation of the ban on fire crackers. We direct Delhi police commissioner to file a personal affidavit putting on record the steps taken by them to enforce ban," it said.
The top court further asked the Delhi government to decide before November 25 on a "perpetual" firecracker ban after consulting stakeholders.
- With inputs from agencies
