Supreme Court rebukes Punjab, Haryana over Delhi air pollution

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. The Supreme Court scolded Punjab and Haryana for neglecting the Delhi air pollution problem.
2. The Haryana Chief Secretary was summoned to appear in court.
3. The court observed an increase in stubble burning cases, highlighting government inaction.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

The Supreme Court on Wednesday issued a stern rebuke to the governments of Punjab and Haryana over their failure to take adequate action against stubble burning, which significantly contributes to the worsening air quality in Delhi and surrounding areas, particularly during the winter. The court described this as “absolute defiance” of the Commission of Air Quality Management’s directions and summoned Haryana’s Chief Secretary, Mr. Prasad, to appear personally in court on October 23.

Expressing dissatisfaction with Haryana’s affidavit, the court remarked that it reflected widespread non-compliance with previous orders. Justice A.S. Oka stated, “We find that Haryana’s affidavit is full of non-compliance. We direct the Commission to take penal action against state officers.” The court was hearing a case concerning the failure to follow orders issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region (NCR), particularly in relation to stubble burning. This practice continues to be a major concern as it exacerbates air pollution in Delhi.

The Chief Secretary has been called to court to provide an explanation not only for the non-compliance but also for the lack of stringent action against violators of the orders.

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