The Supreme Court on Thursday suggested that the Centre and Delhi authorities involve prominent personalities, including celebrated cricketer Virat Kohli, in a public-awareness campaign encouraging people to celebrate Diwali without firecrackers.
A bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and Prasanna B. Varale was hearing proceedings concerning air pollution in Delhi-NCR. During the hearing, the court stressed the need to explore innovative ways to reduce firecracker pollution while allowing people to celebrate the festival of lights.
Supreme Court suggests involving Virat Kohli and other public figures
During the hearing, the court suggested that the authorities seek help from prominent sportspersons and respected public figures to spread awareness about the harmful effects of firecrackers.
Justice P.B. Varale questioned why the authorities could not use the influence of well-known personalities to educate the public about the issue.
Justice Sundresh suggested that celebrated cricketers such as Virat Kohli could be requested to record awareness messages encouraging people to celebrate Diwali without firecrackers.
The judge emphasised that the festival is traditionally associated with lights and that people should be encouraged to enjoy its spirit without activities that cause inconvenience or harm to others.
The court also called for restrictions on firecrackers to be publicised widely through television, newspapers and other platforms so that people are aware of the applicable rules.
Supreme Court stresses educating children about firecracker pollution
The bench also suggested involving educational authorities in raising awareness among children about air pollution and the harmful effects of firecrackers.
Justice Sundresh observed that children could play an important role in changing family habits by encouraging their parents to celebrate Diwali without bursting crackers.
The court noted that the younger generation may be more receptive to changing traditional practices and that educating children could help spread awareness at the household level.
The bench stressed the importance of finding ways to celebrate the festival without causing inconvenience to children, elderly people, persons with disabilities, those with health concerns and animals.
Supreme Court questions enforcement of firecracker restrictions
The suggestions came amid concerns about the implementation of existing restrictions on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR.
In the related proceedings, the Supreme Court questioned the Centre and Delhi authorities over the lack of detailed enforcement data following the limited relaxation of firecracker restrictions in October 2025.
The bench sought details about the steps taken by the authorities, including the formation of enforcement teams, inspections, searches, seizure of prohibited firecrackers and prosecutions against violators.
The court stressed that judicial directions would have little impact unless they were implemented effectively on the ground. It asked the authorities to explain what action had been taken and how the restrictions were being enforced.
Supreme Court not inclined to impose a complete ban on firecrackers
While expressing concern over air pollution and the lack of effective enforcement, the court indicated that it was not inclined to impose a complete ban on firecrackers at this stage.
The bench acknowledged the public's sentiments associated with festivals and said that a balanced approach was necessary. However, it cautioned the authorities against continued non-compliance, warning that it might be compelled to adopt a stricter position if the existing directions were not implemented.
The court also emphasised that celebrating Diwali should not come at the cost of public health and the environment.
The matter concerns the regulation of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, where pollution levels and compliance with restrictions have remained key concerns during the festive season.
