Kohima: Wokha officials banned all firecrackers containing barium salts today. The move covers the manufacture, sale, purchase, and use of these items within district lines. This ban takes effect immediately.
The Deputy Commissioner acted on directions from the Supreme Court of India in the Arjun Gopal vs Union of India case. The high court order from October 29, 2021, cited health risks and environmental damage. Excessive noise and air pollution remain major concerns. The local directive also aligns with Commissioner letter No. CNJ/SC/2018/16 from June 1, 2026.
Authorities now encourage the use of green crackers for upcoming holidays. These include Diwali, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. The administration wants celebrations handled differently. The official notification states that such celebrations should be "organised through community participation in pre-identified and designated areas approved by the concerned authorities, rather than through individual bursting of crackers."
Violators face legal consequences. Any person or group caught selling or using the prohibited items will pay the price under existing laws.
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