The proposed changes shift stricter measures to earlier stages, with some stage 4 advisories now applying at stage 3 and stage 3 measures at stage 2. 

The proposed changes shift stricter measures to earlier stages, with some stage 4 advisories now applying at stage 3 and stage 3 measures at stage 2. 

If rationality and data take a backseat, the courts hesitate to take reasonable decisions, and a government which must prioritise public health does the opposite, then democracy – which is about accountability to the people and the well-being of all – also suffers.

The Supreme Court of India on Friday said it would lift the blanket ban on fire-crackers in Delhi-NCR for five days during Diwali, allowing limited celebrations under regulated conditions. As per the Centre’s proposal, fire-crackers may be used between 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali and other major festivals, 11.55 pm to 12.30 am on New Year’s Eve, and for one-hour slots on Gurpurab.

The debates on the age-based ban have entirely overlooked that Delhi still needs to fix its vehicular pollution.

Delhi is pushing for a permanent ban on firecrackers in its bid to combat severe air and noise pollution, particularly during the winter months.

The court observed that there was a complete lack of coordination between the Delhi government, the police and the MCD over enforcing heavy truck entry ban.

The court observed that there was a complete lack of coordination between the Delhi government, the police and the MCD over enforcing heavy truck entry ban.