Soon, firecracker traders to file review petition with SC

Just a few metres away from Jama Masjid in the Walled City, in the Bazar Paiwalan market nests around 9 fireworks shops. 

The traders dealing in firecrackers mourn the Supreme Court order banning sale and purchase of in Delhi-NCR. When Millennium Post visited the market, either all shops were closed or the firework traders were seen in groups, discussing the SC order and making a strategy for future course of action.

A man sitting outside his locked shop, when asked about the implications of the Apex Court’s order said: “I am 70-year-old and at this stage I cannot switch to some other business. This is my ancestral shop. 

The business was already affected by demonetisation. This judgement will ruin us”.

Another trader, Kamal said: “We will file a review petition. We are discussing it with our lawyers. This would not only affect the traders but also thousands of workers attached with the business. 

“There are approximately 150 permanent licenced shops in Delhi-NCR and many more with hundreds of temporary licence holders.”

Shakir, a worker at a firecracker shop, said in a worried tone: “I have been working with this shop for 16 years. My employer told me about the ban. Pulling a rickshaw seems to be the only option now.”

Another trader with his shutter half down, a bit hesitant to talk, soon opened up saying: “Has any agency calculated how much pollution is caused by cigarette smoking? 

Do you seriously think all pollution in Delhi is caused by firecrackers alone?”