“Burning fireworks during Diwali is being used as an excuse for the new policy drafted by the eThekwini Municipality when more fireworks are detonated during Guy Faukes Day, Christmas and New Years celebrations.

The constitution states that the policy must be available to all people, and by placing the new policy on council’s website, it makes it almost impossible for the vast majority of people to study the policy and comment on the issue. Furthermore, the draft policy does not mention details of the restrictions that already are in place and these restrictions are vital, as it is the result of an agreement made between the Explosives Inspectorate, South African Hindu Sabha, politicians and the SPCA,” said Rajbansi.

According to Rajbansi, the draft policy also requires written permission from council in order to detonate fireworks. The fundamental rights of individuals are being violated, as dealers will be allowed to sell fireworks in “family packs” only and most people will not be able to afford this.