Kerala High Court Bans Firecrackers at Places of Worship During Odd Hours

The High Court of Kerala issued a ban on the bursting of firecrackers during odd hours at places of worship. Justice Amit Rawal, in an interim order, directed collectors of all districts to raid and seize illegally stored crackers at religious places. The decision comes in response to a plea filed in 2014, urging the court to intervene in the practice of bursting crackers at places of worship, which often leads to adverse consequences for nearby residents, especially during festivals.

The court emphasized that there is no religious mandate to burst crackers for pleasing the gods and highlighted the well-established link between firecrackers and environmental pollution. The ban applies to religious events across the state and includes prominent festivals like the Thrissur Pooram, known for its elaborate pyrotechnic displays. The petitioners, residing near the Marattil Kottaram Bhagavathy Temple, had raised concerns about the adverse impact of fireworks on their families and the local community, pointing out that such activities lacked religious or customary basis and were conducted without proper permissions.

The court’s decision underscores the importance of public health and environmental concerns, signaling a move toward cleaner and quieter celebrations, while also addressing the safety concerns associated with explosive materials used in close proximity to residential areas.