Don’t moan about air quality — your government got what it wanted

In a controversial reaction to the Supreme Court’s decision to permit green firecrackers for Diwali in Delhi-NCR, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra told citizens to stop complaining about air quality, asserting that the government “did what it sought” by reinstating firecrackers. 

The Supreme Court’s order lifts a previous blanket ban, allowing sale and bursting of NEERI-/PESO-certified green crackers during restricted hours — specifically between 6–7 am and 8–10 pm, from October 18 to 21. Critics have raised concerns that even these “green” crackers could worsen air pollution during Diwali, particularly when meteorological conditions already trap particulate matter near ground level.

Moitra’s remark — “Let’s not waste any time this year moaning about air quality” — triggered backlash from environmentalists and political opponents alike. Some see it as tone-deaf, given Delhi’s recurring air quality crises in recent years. Others retort that the decision reflects popular demand and cultural sentiment.

Supporters of the Supreme Court’s verdict argue it strikes a “balanced approach” — allowing festive traditions while limiting pollution harm. The court, in its order, stressed enforcement: only certified green crackers, sale via licensed shops, QR codes for traceability, and close monitoring by CPCB and state pollution boards. 

However, experts caution that even green crackers add an incremental 20–30 % to typical Diwali pollution levels, which, when combined with crop burning and emissions from vehicles, could push AQI into “very poor” or “severe” bands. The worry is that enforcement might be lax, smuggled non-green crackers may flood markets, and public health will bear the cost.

In the political arena, Moitra’s comments have been seized by opponents as provocative. They argue that suggesting citizens “stop moaning” about air quality dismisses genuine health concerns—especially for children, the elderly and those with respiratory ailments. Meanwhile, her supporters counter that her bluntness reflects frustration at what she sees as hypocrisy in public discourse.

As Diwali approaches, the tension between culture and clean air is poised to renew debate. Will the Supreme Court’s limits and enforcement framework hold? Will the public hold the government accountable if the skies darken? And will voices like Mahua Moitra’s shape or inflame the conversation?