Only green crackers allowed; sale permitted till November 8, CCTV monitoring mandatory, several high-noise crackers banned
Kishtwar, October 28: District Magistrate Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma (JKAS) has imposed strict restrictions on the storage and sale of firecrackers ahead of Diwali 2026, making licences mandatory, restricting sales to designated locations and directing authorised sellers to install CCTV cameras.
The order has been issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, to prevent fire accidents, control noise and air pollution, and safeguard public life and property during the festive season.
According to the order, no dealer or individual can sell firecrackers without a valid licence or permission from the competent authority. Bulk storage and the use of godowns also require the prescribed authorisation. Sales will be permitted only at locations specifically approved by the Additional District Magistrates or Sub-Divisional Magistrates concerned.
CCTV Cameras Mandatory at Shops and Godowns
All authorised firecracker shops and storage facilities must install functional CCTV cameras. Sellers have been directed to preserve recorded footage for at least 30 days and produce it before authorities whenever required.
The administration has also directed sellers to maintain safe electrical fittings and adequate lighting at their premises. Persons below 18 years of age, those under the influence of intoxicants and persons of unsound mind cannot be employed to handle or transport firecrackers.
Several High-Noise Crackers Banned
The order prohibits the sale of several hazardous and high-noise fireworks, including Chocolate Bombs, Chain Crackers, Kali Pataka (loose crackers), Dhani Patakaa, Dodoma, Seven Shots, Rocket Bombs, Garland Patakas and Stat Bombs.
Imported fireworks containing prohibited substances, along with products that fail to meet prescribed Indian noise and safety standards, are also prohibited.
Only Green Crackers Allowed Till November 8
The District Magistrate has directed that only green crackers complying with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines and applicable government directions may be sold. Retail sales are permitted only until November 8, 2026, with no sales allowed beyond the deadline.
All firecrackers must carry clearly visible price tags, and sellers cannot charge above the maximum retail price (MRP), inclusive of applicable taxes.
Violations May Lead to Seizure and Prosecution
The administration has warned that violations may result in cancellation of licences or permissions, confiscation of firecracker stocks and prosecution under applicable legal provisions, including Section 223 of the BNSS, 2023, as cited in the order.
The restrictions aim to ensure a safe and peaceful Diwali across Kishtwar district by regulating firecracker sales, reducing environmental and noise pollution, and preventing accidents.
