Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has expressed displeasure over the rising pollution in the National Capital Region of Delhi. During a hearing on Monday, the Supreme Court expressed displeasure over the setting off of firecrackers in Delhi despite a ban. The court said there was no doubt that the ban on firecrackers would be difficult to enforce. The Supreme Court has directed the Delhi government and Delhi Police Commissioner to file an affidavit.
The Supreme Court said during the hearing that reports cited by amicus curiae showed that the level of contamination was the highest yet. There are even reports of an increase in palm tree fires at higher times. We direct the Delhi government to submit an affidavit on the steps taken to address the pollution issue.
Directions to provide affidavit even for stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana
Apart from this, the court said it has also directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to file an affidavit regarding the steps taken to implement the ban. Both sides should highlight what steps they recommend taking to avoid this happening again next year. This should also include public event steps. The court said Punjab and Haryana should also submit an affidavit regarding details of stubble burning in the past 10 days.
‘Officials should answer the call’
In its order, the Supreme Court said that these aspects of the events that took place on Diwali 2024 will be considered on 14/11. The Delhi government and police commissioner have to submit an affidavit within a week. The pair’s affidavits must also mention fire incidents that occurred during this period. Meanwhile, the Delhi government and other authorities should also heed the call and impose a “permanent ban” on these firecrackers.
