SC to Examine Plea to Ease Green-Cracker Ban Across India
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · IR
Why in news
The Supreme Court has agreed to examine a plea seeking relaxation of its order banning the sale of green crackers nationwide. The court acknowledged that pollution levels vary across regions, and a balance must be struck between pollution control and the livelihoods of lakhs of workers in the firecracker industry.
Background
The Supreme Court had previously imposed restrictions on firecrackers, particularly in Delhi-NCR, to combat severe air pollution. Green crackers, which emit less smoke and pollutants, were allowed as an alternative. However, a blanket ban on sale has been challenged by manufacturers, arguing that it ignores regional differences in pollution.
Key facts
The Supreme Court agreed to examine a plea by a cracker manufacturer association to relax the green-cracker ban.
The court emphasized balancing pollution control with employment of lakhs of workers in the firecracker industry.
Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati argued that the entire country cannot be viewed through the prism of Delhi's pollution crisis.
The court asked all parties to propose a solution that considers competing interests.
The plea challenges the blanket ban on sale of green crackers, citing regional variations in air quality.
Prelims pointers
- Green crackers: Firecrackers with reduced emission of pollutants, approved by CSIR-NEERI.
- Supreme Court's earlier ban on sale of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR during certain periods.
- Additional Solicitor General: A law officer representing the Union government in court.
Mains angles
- GS3 Environment: Discuss the trade-off between pollution control and economic livelihoods.
- GS2 Polity: Examine the role of judiciary in environmental regulation and federal balance.
- GS3 Economy: Impact of regulations on small-scale industries and employment.