Shillong, Nov 5: The District Magistrate, East Khasi Hills District has directed all citizens to strictly comply with the directions of the Supreme Court while bursting crackers.

The District Magistrate informed that the Supreme Court in civil writ petition No. 728 of 2015 has prohibited bursting of crackers beyond the two hours stipulated time during all major festivals including the ensuing Deepawali Festival.

The two hours timings for bursting crackers from all wholesale and retail outlets has been fixed from 10 A,M on 6th and 7th November, and the time for bursting of low decibel and low emission crackers has been fixed from 8 pm to 10 pm only.

The District Magistrate said that any deviance from the orders of the Supreme Court would invite strict action as per law. Any bursting of crackers for religious, social or cultural purposes would necessitate the groups concerned to obtain necessary permission in writing from the office of the Deputy Commissioner East Khasi Hills District, failing which, the group concerned will be held personally responsible for their acts which are in contravention of the Supreme Court’s order.