Karnataka Minister Defends Firecracker Curbs, Slams BJP's Stance

By A Staff Reporter: In Bengaluru, Karnataka Minister Eshwar Khandre addressed the media, urging adherence to the Supreme Court’s guidelines on firecracker usage and expressing concerns over increasing pollution levels. Khandre highlighted the court’s directive permitting only environment-friendly firecrackers to be set off and restricting the timing between 8-10 pm, aimed at minimizing air and noise pollution. “This is in the best interest of the public,” he stated, noting the necessity of government-issued notifications to ensure public health and environmental safety.

Khandre also directed questions to BJP leaders, including Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, about their objections to these restrictions. He criticized the BJP’s approach, suggesting they were trying to “polarise” the issue along religious lines, which he labeled as “unfortunate.” Khandre called for citizens to recognize and respond to what he described as divisive tactics.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to public welfare, Khandre stressed that such regulations are intended to address growing pollution concerns and protect public health, urging community compliance for the benefit of all.