In short: At the latest hearing, reported on 30 September 2026, the Supreme Court said it will neither impose a total ban nor allow firecrackers round the clock in Delhi-NCR this Diwali. Bursting is likely to be allowed only during fixed hours, and only for approved green crackers. The final order is still awaited, and this page will be updated when it comes.

What did the Supreme Court say?

A bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and P.B. Varale is hearing the long-running firecracker case, which began in 2015. The bench said the issue needs a balance between festive sentiment and the health of people affected by pollution, especially vulnerable groups. In the court's words: "We are neither going to agree for a total ban nor allow them to do it for 24 hours."

  • Fixed hours: the court indicated firecrackers may be allowed during Diwali within specified time windows.
  • Joint crackers ("laris"): the court indicated it may accept specified next-generation green "laris", with safeguards.
  • Barium: the Central Pollution Control Board has until 15 October 2026 to report its findings on barium-containing crackers.

What happened last year?

For Diwali 2025, the Supreme Court allowed the sale and use of NEERI-approved green crackers in Delhi-NCR for a few days around Diwali. Bursting was allowed only during prescribed morning and evening hours, and only authorised products carrying QR codes could be sold.

What are "green crackers"?

Green crackers are formulations developed by CSIR-NEERI that cut emissions compared with conventional firecrackers. They avoid or reduce harmful chemicals like barium salts. Genuine green crackers carry the green fireworks logo and a QR code you can scan to check they are authentic.

What if you break the rules?

Bursting or selling banned crackers, or bursting outside permitted hours, can lead to action by the police and pollution authorities. Disobeying an order lawfully made by a public authority is an offence under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (old IPC Section 188; see the Section Finder). Sellers of illegal stock can also have it seized and face penalties under the explosives and environment laws.

What about the rest of India?

The Delhi-NCR case gets the most attention, but rules differ by state and city. Many states issue their own orders fixing permitted hours and allowing only green crackers. Check your state government's or district administration's notification before Diwali.

Frequently asked questions

Are firecrackers banned in Delhi for Diwali 2026?

The Supreme Court has said it will not impose a total ban, nor allow round-the-clock bursting. It indicated approved green crackers may be allowed during fixed hours. The final order is awaited.

What is the punishment for bursting crackers outside permitted hours?

Disobeying an order lawfully made by a public authority is an offence under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (formerly IPC Section 188), and police can take action.

How do I know if a firecracker is a genuine green cracker?

Genuine green crackers carry the green fireworks logo and a QR code that you can scan to verify the product.

Sources

Not legal advice. This page explains the law in general terms. Rules, fees and limits change, and your facts matter. Check the official source or consult a qualified advocate before acting. Disclaimer