Supreme Court of India Emphasizes Pollution-Free Living as a Fundamental Right
The Supreme Court of India has highlighted the right to live in a pollution-free environment as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. This announcement came as the court questioned the failure of Delhi authorities to enforce a firecracker ban during Diwali, which impacts citizens’ health.
Firecracker Ban Enforcement
A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih expressed dissatisfaction with the Delhi Police for not taking the ban seriously. The court directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to inform all license holders to stop selling firecrackers and to ensure no online sales occur within Delhi.
Action Against Stubble Burning
The court also addressed the issue of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, urging strict compliance with rules and questioning the lack of prosecution against farmers involved. The Centre rejected Punjab’s request for funds to help farmers tackle stubble burning.
Future Steps
The Delhi government is considering extending the firecracker ban throughout the year, with a decision expected by November 25. The court has asked all NCR states to report on their pollution control measures.
Doubts Revealed
Supreme Court of India -: The Supreme Court of India is the highest court in the country. It makes important decisions about laws and rights for all Indians.
Pollution-Free Living -: Pollution-free living means living in an environment where the air, water, and land are clean and not harmful to health.
Fundamental Right -: A fundamental right is a basic right that every citizen has, which is protected by the Constitution of India.
Article 21 -: Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal liberty to every person in India.
Delhi authorities -: Delhi authorities are the people and organizations responsible for managing and governing the city of Delhi.
Firecracker ban -: A firecracker ban means that people are not allowed to sell or use firecrackers, usually to prevent pollution and noise.
Diwali -: Diwali is a popular Hindu festival of lights celebrated in India, where people light lamps and burst firecrackers.
Stubble burning -: Stubble burning is the practice of setting fire to the remains of crops in fields, which can cause air pollution.
Punjab and Haryana -: Punjab and Haryana are states in northern India where a lot of farming happens, and sometimes farmers burn crop remains.