The Supreme Court has taken serious note of reports that firecrackers are being openly sold in markets across Delhi despite existing restrictions. The court has directed the Central Government to take immediate steps to ensure compliance with its orders.
 

A bench comprising Justice M.M. Sundresh and Justice P.B. Varale referred to a report published in Hindustan Times and instructed Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati to take immediate notice of the sale of all types of firecrackers, including licensed, unlicensed and QR code-labelled products.
 

The Supreme Court has permitted the use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR on November 7 and 8, on the occasion of Diwali, only during two specified time slots: from 6 am to 7 am and from 8 pm to 10 pm.
 

In its October 29 order, the court observed that sufficient data was not yet available to justify imposing a complete ban. However, the bench expressed concern over the failure of the authorities to ensure proper implementation of its directions.
 

The court also observed that the right to practise religious traditions is subject to limitations and cannot override constitutional restrictions.
 

Referring to its October 15, 2025 order, the Supreme Court clarified that a complete ban on firecrackers would come into force again from November 9.
 

The court has also declared a 300-metre radius around hospitals, nursing homes, old-age homes and designated silence zones as 'no-cracker zones'. The use of firecrackers will remain completely prohibited in these areas.
 

The directions come amid concerns over the reported sale of firecrackers in Delhi markets despite restrictions imposed by the court.