Delhi Diwali: Arvind Kejriwal said Diwali is fundamentally a celebration of light, and pollution caused by fireworks has negative effects, especially on kids.
In light of the ongoing ban on fireworks in Delhi during Diwali, Arvind Kejriwal of the Aam Aadmi Party on Wednesday reiterated that the restriction is not a matter of religion, but rather an effort to protect public health.
At a press conference, the former Delhi chief minister highlighted that Diwali is fundamentally a celebration of light, and the pollution caused by fireworks has lasting negative effects, especially on children.
Stating that it’s not about Hindu or Muslim, Arvind Kejriwal emphasised that the festival’s true spirit is in spreading light, not smoke, and noted the importance of prioritising health over tradition when it comes to pollution.
“Even the Supreme Court and high court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers, we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not firecrackers. By not bursting firecrackers, we are not doing any favour to anyone. We are doing it for ourselves and our family. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone’s life is important,” Arvind Kejriwal said.