Bombay High Court asks Maharashtra to weigh time limits on firecrackers

The Bombay High Court has suggested that the Maharashtra administration look into adopting the Supreme Court's restricted hours for setting off firecrackers during festivals to cut down on pollution and health risks. Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale issued a thirteen-page ruling after taking suo motu notice of the removal of an awareness video featuring actor Dia Mirza by city authorities.

Official Directions

The judges pointed out that the top court had restricted the use of green crackers in the Delhi capital region to two daily time slots, from six to seven in the morning and eight to ten at night. The High Court stated that local bodies in Maharashtra, including the state pollution board, the municipal corporation, and the police, should evaluate if these timing restrictions fit local conditions.

The Controversy

The Bench called the removal of the actor's social media message most unfortunate and noted that public health initiatives should not face interference. The ruling praised Dia Mirza, Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad, Ajinkya Rahane, Harshada Khanwilkar, Swapnil Joshi, and Kushal Badrike for offering their support without pay. The municipal body took down the clip after objections from Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam and remarks from mayor Ritu Tawde, even though videos featuring other celebrities remained online.

Context

Courts often intervene during major festivals to balance traditional celebrations with public health concerns over worsening air quality in urban centers. State and municipal authorities are tasked with enforcing these judicial guidelines while ensuring that administrative actions remain aligned with constitutional principles of secularism and fairness.