India Supreme Court Rejects Total Firecracker Ban for Diwali

The Supreme Court of India ruled on September 30, 2026, that it will not impose a nationwide ban on firecrackers for the upcoming Diwali season, stating that a total prohibition would hurt public sentiments. However, the court also refused to allow unrestricted 24-hour use, noting that round-the-clock bursting would negatively impact children, the elderly, and the sick.

Justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale indicated the need for a middle ground, intending to establish specified time windows and permissible types of fireworks. As part of this balanced approach, the court granted a limited and conditional relaxation for the manufacture of next-generation joined green crackers. These crackers, developed by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, reduce emissions by 30% and solid waste by up to 32% compared to conventional versions. The court mandated that these products must be produced by licensed manufacturers and adhere to noise limits of 125 dB(AI)/145 dB(C) peak.

The court is currently awaiting a report from the Central Pollution Control Board regarding the impact of barium-based firecrackers. Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati requested more time for outdoor testing, and the court set a deadline of October 15 to further consider the use of barium and decibel levels. This litigation originates from a 2015 case concerning severe air pollution in Delhi and other north Indian states between October and January.