THRISSUR: Representatives of the Devaswom Board were sullen in their response to the latest HC order that banned fireworks in front of religious places. Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu Devawsoms said that no such thing as Thrissur Pooram would ever happen without any fireworks, and retorted the HC decision saying it was taken hastily without seeking any statements from Devaswoms.

"The Supreme Court has given relaxation to the Thrissur Pooram fireworks. Fireworks are part of the ritual and all procedures are duly followed. If the court order is applied, legal recourse will be sought. Banning it in religious centres and allowing it elsewhere is not equal justice. Thrissur Pooram is the only place where fireworks are being held under the watch of the PESO. Banned ammunition is not used for Thrissur Pooram." said one Devaswom representative.

Paramekkavu Devaswom Secretary G Rajesh said that it is not acceptable to ban firecrackers only in festivals without banning them in houses. The meeting was held three months ago and the firework is being carried out adhering to all the rules and regulations. Thiruvambady Devaswom Joint Secretary Sasidharan said that the order should be reconsidered.

The Kerala High Court imposed a ban on firecrackers in places of worship, in the wake of the Diwali festival. The ban is for bursting firecrackers at odd hours in places of worship. In the interim order issued on a plea that sought a ban on bursting crackers in front of worship places, the court said, “ There exists no commandant in any holy book that supports bursting crackers to please gods.”

The High Court also directed the District Collectors to ensure that fireworks are not set off at odd hours. The order was passed by Justice Amit Rawal.