OBSESSION WITH FIRE CRACKERS ON DIWALI IS MADNESS


Mukesh Devrari

Whether you like it or not, Diwali is definitely not a thing which we have made out of it. This madness about fire crackers define and describe Diwali other than anything else in India. Bhagwan Shri Ram and ancient sages of his time who are known for their internal peace would not have sanctioned this madness about the use of fire crackers during Diwali.

For most Indians, nature and environment is not important at all. Most of the Indian population is still struggling to make two ends meet. Majority of population is somehow surviving. In the name of religion and ritual this country did not shy away from burning women on the funeral pyres of their husband, it would be insane to imagine that this society would abdicate the use of fire crackers for the sake of environment and nature without any resistance.

There are two specific problems with fire crackers. First, burning fire crackers insert poisonous gases in the air which we all inhale. Second, people spent their hardened money in creating nuisance all around. They rape peace and tranquility of elders, infants and their neighbors who might not like the high decibel sound around them for whole night. Third, in this already filthy nation and unclean public places, fire crackers add to the existing filth. Fifth, it also leads to accidental fires and burning.

Supreme Court has taken an amazing decision to discourage the use of fire crackers in the national capital. However, this decision was half-hearted, but at least it was decision in the right direction. Other High Courts might take a cue and deliver similar judgments.

This decision can be taken only by judiciary. Politicians through legislature can never attempt to implement it. Human societies at times need a gentle nudge for rightful causes. Majority opinion cannot be trusted, respected and implemented as panacea to all ethical and legal problems in a democracy. A general will should guide our society in landmark junctures.   
Agitators should be encouraged to donate their money, which they spent on fire crackers, to schools, colleges, universities or to Prime Minister’s emergency relief fund. It will be true service to the nation and a step in the direction of nation building.

This obsession with fire crackers and misplaced arguments in favor of it should have no place in civilized and sensible societies. This Taliban style fundamentalism that says we would not change, we would not mend our ways, no matter what may come, have no place in India. Rather than abusing judges for this great decision, public intellectuals, rational sections of society should openly support this decision to bring sanity this Diwali in Delhi.

It is nature of ideas. Some ideas are just ahead of their times. Only the coming generations with their evolved sensibilities might be able to appreciate their forefathers for their foresightedness and for the steps they have taken to preserve and protect their environment.
May this Diwali bring happiness in the lives of every life form on this planet and beyond. 

Happy Diwali to all of you.

end.  

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