Firecracker restrictions raised in Assembly

During the starred question discussion in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, NPP MLA Nuklutoshi raised concern over the lack of restrictions on bursting firecrackers during Christmas and New Year celebrations while they are regulated during Diwali.
Highlighting the health and environmental hazards, Nuklutoshi said affluent individuals often spend lakhs of rupees on firecrackers that burn out within minutes, posing risks to themselves and others, particularly the elderly. He remarked that the practice was not part of Naga culture and observed that society had become hypocritical by neglecting the welfare of others.
He also pointed out that despite government notifications and restrictions, many people remain either unaware or indifferent, and directives are frequently ignored. Questioning whether the department would consider a complete ban, he noted that since people in Nagaland were not adhering to Supreme Court of India guidelines, the House should examine the possibility of fully banning firecrackers in the state.
Responding to the query, deputy chief minister and Home minister Y Patton said the Supreme Court had not imposed a total ban on firecrackers but had allowed limited bursting for one hour during Diwali as well as Christmas and New Year.
He added that the police and administration had issued directions and public notices three times in 2023, 2024 and 2025 to enforce the order. Patton called for cooperation from civil society organisations and the public, stating that the police and administration alone could not manage the situation without collective support. He assured the House that the department was making all possible efforts and stepping up measures to curb the misuse of firecrackers.