Supreme Court Lifts Diwali Firecracker Ban for 2025 Celebrations

On October 11, 2025, the Supreme Court has made a decision to lift the ban on firecrackers for the upcoming Diwali festival, allowing their use on a trial basis. The court has recognized the importance of the festival for children and has stated that it will "permit the ban lifting during Diwali."

However, the court has also imposed strict time limits on the use of firecrackers. Fireworks will only be allowed from 8 PM to 10 PM on Diwali, and for limited time slots on other occasions such as New Year's Eve and Gurpurab. The government has proposed these time windows to help manage the spike in air pollution that typically occurs during the Diwali season.

Despite the relaxation of the ban, concerns remain over the sale of "fake green crackers" that continue to use polluting chemicals. The court-appointed amicus curiae, Aparajita Singh, has expressed concerns about these products being sold under false labels. The court has acknowledged this issue and will be monitoring the situation closely.

The decision to lift the firecracker ban for Diwali 2025 comes amid ongoing concerns over air quality and pollution levels in the region. While weather conditions and stubble burning in neighboring states are significant contributors to the problem, the use of firecrackers, even green crackers, can lead to a temporary spike in air pollution. The court has recognized the need to balance the cultural significance of Diwali with the environmental impact of fireworks.