The Delhi High Court on Monday stated that it cannot permit the sale of firecrackers given the already high levels of pollution in the national capital.

The court made this oral observation while hearing a petition filed by the 'Delhi Fireworks Shopkeepers Association', a group of traders holding "permanent" licenses to possess and sell firecrackers.

The petitioner's counsel argued that the traders' grievance was related to the ban on storing firecrackers, which was allegedly leading to harassment. During the hearing, the court stated that it would direct authorities to seal the premises used by traders for firecracker storage to prevent any pilferage.

"The state must be involved in the sealing process so that there is no pilferage," said Justice Sanjeev Narula.

"We are not going to allow you to sell. There is enough pollution in this city," added the judge orally.

The petitioner's counsel stated that, despite their members not selling firecrackers, the police began visiting permanent license holders after the ban, questioning the storage of firecrackers. The court noted that one of the instances mentioned by the petitioner involved allegations of illegal firecracker sales and emphasized that anyone violating the law would face prosecution.

"We can't make an exception for you. If you store them, there is a possibility of (misuse). We will put a seal. It will be videographed," the court said orally.

While making the announcement, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai called on residents to support the government's initiatives to reduce air pollution.