Bombay HC bench orders Nagpur police to act on open sale of loud firecrackers

The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has taken a stern view of the open sale of loud firecrackers and dangerous "sutli bombs" in the city. The court said firecrackers louder than 55 decibels must not be sold and that strict action should be taken against those who sell them.

The matter came up at Wednesday's hearing. Amicus curiae Adv. Abdul Subhan showed the High Court photographs to illustrate how the rules were being flouted. Under the rules, two firecracker shops must be kept 3 metres apart, but the photographs showed shops standing right next to one another.

After seeing this, Justice Urmila Joshi Phalke and Justice Raj Wakode gave oral orders to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of Zone 3 to take strict action immediately. The court also said the DCP of the zone concerned should take stringent action against those selling firecrackers louder than 55 decibels.

Displeasure over delay on online complaints

Complaints on noise pollution that come in through the online portal were expected to draw immediate steps from the police. The police administration, however, cited technical reasons, which drew deep displeasure from the High Court. The court orally directed the Police Commissioner to look into the entire matter personally.

The High Court has also ordered the Police Commissioner to file an affidavit stating whether the 55-decibel limit is being followed, and what action has so far been taken against sellers and wholesalers who broke the rules.

The court reiterated that the police bear full responsibility for ensuring complete compliance with the Supreme Court's guidelines. For this, the police should form special squads and inspect shops regularly.

Warning of contempt

The Nagpur bench also warned the police administration that any negligence in enforcing the rules would be treated as contempt of court. According to the court, no compromise with public health and safety will be tolerated. The police must therefore take firm steps on the ground at once to stop the illegal sale of firecrackers.