The Supreme Court's rebuke to the Punjab and Haryana governments over their handling of stubble burning comes at a critical time, as air pollution in Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) continues to worsen each year with the arrival of winter. The court was visibly frustrated with the persistent lack of action, calling out the "attitude of complete defiance" displayed by the state authorities, who, despite numerous orders, have failed to implement meaningful measures to control stubble burning.
Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, a common practice among farmers to clear their fields of paddy residue after harvest, is one of the primary contributors to the toxic smog that envelops Delhi during the winter months. This practice, though banned, remains prevalent because many farmers find it to be the quickest and most cost-effective method to prepare their land for the next cropping season. While the government has introduced alternatives, such as subsidized machinery for straw management and incentives for eco-friendly practices, these measures have not been adequately implemented at the ground level. Many farmers, particularly small and marginal ones, lack the resources or access to the necessary equipment, leaving them with little choice but to continue burning their fields.
The Supreme Court has been closely monitoring the air quality situation in Delhi for several years, issuing directives to various stakeholders, including the central government and neighboring states, to take coordinated action. However, the court expressed its concern that the state governments of Punjab and Haryana have consistently failed to meet the expectations set by the court's orders. The ongoing crisis is a public health emergency, with millions of people exposed to hazardous air pollution that causes respiratory problems, heart disease, and other serious health issues.
The bench, led by the Chief Justice of India, made it clear that the court would not tolerate further delays in addressing the pollution crisis. It reminded the state authorities that air pollution is not just an environmental issue but also a violation of the fundamental right to life, as guaranteed by the Constitution. The court noted that while the governments had come up with plans on paper, these plans had not translated into tangible results on the ground. The court emphasized the need for effective enforcement mechanisms and urged the governments to hold those responsible for violations accountable.
In its scathing observations, the Supreme Court also pointed out that Delhi, as the nation’s capital, attracts significant international attention, and the recurrent pollution crisis tarnishes the image of the country on the global stage. The court further emphasized that this annual phenomenon not only affects public health but also disrupts daily life, with schools being forced to shut down, businesses facing slowdowns, and transportation services hampered by low visibility caused by thick smog.
In light of the approaching winter season, when stubble burning peaks and atmospheric conditions worsen, the court directed the Punjab and Haryana governments to present a concrete action plan within a stipulated time frame. The bench warned that if the states failed to comply with the court's orders, it would not hesitate to take stringent legal measures, including imposing penalties or holding officials personally accountable for dereliction duty.
While the governments of Punjab and Haryana have promised to distribute more machinery to manage crop residue and offer financial assistance to farmers, the Supreme Court remained skeptical of their commitments, given the historical failure to deliver. The court emphasized the need for comprehensive and sustained efforts to educate farmers about alternative methods and the long-term environmental and health benefits of reducing stubble burning.
The court also called on the central government to play a more active role in coordinating efforts between states and ensuring that all stakeholders, including farmers, local administrations, and environmental agencies, are on the same page in tackling the crisis. While punitive measures are important, the court recognized that a long-term solution requires collaboration, innovation, and substantial investment in sustainable agricultural practices.
The upcoming months will be critical in determining whether the Punjab and Haryana governments can finally take effective steps to mitigate the pollution crisis. With increasing public pressure and the Supreme Court keeping a close watch, it remains to be seen whether the authorities will rise to the challenge and end this annual health and environmental catastrophe.
