Kerala Government Challenges Fireworks Ban at Places of Worship, Citing Religious Tradition

The Kerala state government has lodged an appeal with the Kerala High Court, contesting a recent single-bench order that limits the use of fireworks at religious sites during unconventional hours. The division bench led by High Court Chief Justice Ashish J Desai is scheduled to hear the appeal on Tuesday.

In its appeal, the government argued that fireworks have been an integral part of numerous religious festivals in Kerala for centuries. The state asserted that the recent court order failed to consider established exceptions, such as those allowing fireworks displays during significant temple festivals like Thrissur Pooram. The government urged the court to overturn the single bench’s decision.

Additionally, the single-bench ruling not only restricted the use of fireworks but also instructed the state to conduct inspections at all religious sites to confiscate illegal firecrackers. The court mandated that a detailed report on these actions be submitted by November 24.