The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, has issued a notification banning the manufacture, sale, purchase, and use of firecrackers containing barium salts within the district, with immediate effect.

The order follows directions of the Supreme Court of India in WP(C) No. 728 of 2015, Arjun Gopal & Others vs Union of India & Others, and its subsequent order dated 29th October 2021, which highlighted the serious health and environmental hazards posed by firecrackers, including fire risks, noise pollution, and air pollution. The notification also complies with the Commissioner’s letter No. CNJ/SC/2018/16 dated June 1, 2026.

In view of these concerns, the Deputy Commissioner has directed that all forms of firecrackers containing barium salts are strictly prohibited in Wokha District. However, permissible “green crackers” may be encouraged during festive occasions such as Diwali, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve.

The order emphasizes that such celebrations should be organized through community participation in pre‐identified and designated areas approved by the concerned authorities, rather than through individual bursting of crackers.

The notification warns that any individual or organization found manufacturing, selling, or using banned firecrackers will face penalties under the relevant provisions of law.

(IA, Wokha)