India, Oct. 12 -- The Supreme Court on Monday called for a practical approach to regulating firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, stressing that efforts to tackle air pollution must take public health concerns into account without hurting religious sentiments. The court said it was not inclined to impose a blanket ban and urged people to voluntarily adopt safer ways of celebrating.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana said public awareness and cooperation from citizens would be more effective in encouraging responsible celebrations. The court was hearing suo motu proceedings concerning air pollution in Delhi-NCR, covering issues such as firecrackers, crop residue burning and solid ...