Delhi Chief Minister Atishi voiced strong concerns over the alarming air pollution enveloping northern India, describing it as a "medical emergency." She attributed the severe pollution to widespread stubble burning, especially in states governed by the BJP. Speaking to India Today TV, Atishi criticized the central government for its lack of decisive action, specifically calling out Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence amidst the escalating crisis.
Atishi questioned the government's commitment to the well-being of citizens, highlighting that the problem of air pollution extends beyond Delhi to states like Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. She emphasized that the health risks are national in scope, not confined to the capital. Her comments came as toxic smog covered Delhi, causing poor visibility and pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) into the 'severe plus' category, reaching a hazardous 493.
Atishi directly challenged the central leadership, asking, "What steps has the Centre taken? Why is the Prime Minister not addressing this crisis? Are they indifferent to the struggles of people in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar? Has the Prime Minister called for any emergency measures to address the pollution?" She criticized the Modi administration for failing to enact substantial measures over the years to curb the ongoing pollution problem.
In her interview, Atishi also defended the Aam Aadmi Party-led Delhi government's efforts to combat pollution, emphasizing that stubble burning is not an issue within the city. She pointed out that data shows AAP-governed states have lower instances of stubble burning compared to BJP-ruled regions, with Delhi remaining proactive in reducing pollution sources. She mentioned that eight states currently suffer from extremely poor AQI levels, including Rajasthan, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, indicating that the issue is widespread.
Highlighting Delhi's proactive measures, Atishi remarked, "Delhi has made significant efforts to reduce pollution—shutting down thermal power plants and brick kilns, and transitioning public buses to electric. Name another state that has implemented such initiatives. Yet, Delhi cannot act alone; if stubble burning continues in Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, there is a limit to what the Chief Minister of Delhi can achieve."
The ongoing pollution crisis has led to the implementation of strict measures. The Commission for Air Quality Management enforced the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-IV restrictions in Delhi-NCR. Additionally, the Supreme Court intervened, mandating that the Delhi government maintain stringent controls and consult the court before easing restrictions, even if the AQI falls below 450. The Court underscored that it is the "constitutional obligation" of both the central and state governments to ensure a pollution-free environment.
