Twitter goes abuzz over Supreme Court order on burst timings

The Supreme Court order on Tuesday allowing bursting of firecrackers for two hours between 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali has evoked strong criticism in the social media with many calling it as an imposition of North Indian culture on others.

Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers' Association secretary K Mariappan wondered how apex court could come out with such a time limit for bursting firecrackers as customs differ from state to state.

"In Tamil Nadu, Diwali is celebrated in the morning. People get up early, have oil bath, wear new clothes, eat sweet and 'legiam' (or herbal jam) and then start bursting firecrackers," Mariappan said.

He said in North, Diwali is celebrated in the evening.

Political commentator Sumanth Raman echoed similar views. "In many parts of India, it is a tradition to burst crackers early morning. So should people just give this up? And on what scientific basis was 8 to 10 pm decided?" he asked.

MR Ventakesan, a chartered accountant tweeted: "Diwali is celebrated early morning in South.... so should we wait till 8 pm to burst crackers?"

Mixed Reactions

While some social media users were disappointed only time curbs have been imposed and not a blanket ban on crackers, many took it as yet another attack on religious sentiments.