SC modifies timing for bursting firecrackers on Diwali in TN, Puducherry; retains 2 hour cap

The Supreme Court on Tuesday modified its order which had fixed 8 PM to 10 PM as slot for bursting firecrackers on Diwali and other festivals, saying that authorities in states are at liberty to change the timings but the duration will not exceed two hours a day.

The apex court also said that its directions on "green crackers" was meant only for Delhi-NCR.

The court was hearing a plea by Tamil Nadu government which sought its nod for bursting of crackers on Diwali morning in accordance with the religious practices in the state.

In its October 23 order, the court had ordered that bursting of firecrackers on Diwali and other festivals would be only from 8 PM to 10 PM
"This is not being done suddenly. The manufacturers were aware of it," Shankarnarayanan said, adding, "From 2015, we do not have actual ban on firecrackers which is effecting our lungs and killing our children. The WHO (World Health Organisation) has said India is the most polluted country."