Delhi Air Pollution Sparks Protest, Detentions at India Gate
Scores of parents, schoolchildren, and environmental activists gathered at India Gate on Wednesday to protest Delhi’s severe air pollution crisis, only to be detained by police for assembling without permission. Organized under the banner “Clean Air for Our Children,” the demonstration highlighted growing public anger over hazardous air quality.
Protesters Demand Action as Police Make Detentions
Wearing masks and holding signs like “We Can’t Breathe” and “Stop Killing Our Kids,” protesters—including students skipping school—called for urgent government intervention.
“Our children suffer headaches and breathing issues daily. Is this acceptable in India’s capital?” said Priya Malik, a mother and organizer.
Within an hour, Delhi Police invoked Section 144 of the CrPC (prohibiting unlawful assemblies) and detained approximately 50 protesters, citing lack of prior permission.
Activists Condemn Crackdown, List Key Demands
Groups like Fridays For Future India and My Right To Breathe criticized the detentions as suppression of dissent. Protesters demanded:
1. Strict enforcement of GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)
2. Long-term clean energy policies for Delhi-NCR
3. Free N95 masks and health advisories for vulnerable groups
“Instead of tackling pollution, authorities silence voices,” said detained activist Anjali Sharma.
Government Defends Measures Amid Public Anger
While the Delhi government cited existing GRAP steps (construction bans, traffic restrictions), activists argue enforcement is weak.
“AQI levels exceed 400, yet trucks, industries, and violators operate unchecked,” noted lawyer Rahul Choudhary.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) blamed stubble burning in neighboring states, but experts emphasize local factors like vehicles and construction dust.
Social Media Erupts Over Detentions
Hashtags like #DelhiCantBreathe and #ArrestedForCleanAir trended, with critics slamming the focus on protesters over polluters.
“This is a health emergency, not a law-and-order issue,” tweeted ex-Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh.
What’s Next for Delhi’s Air Crisis?
With Supreme Court scrutiny and planned larger protests, pressure mounts on officials. As smog chokes the city, Delhi’s residents demand action—will leaders respond?
— Reported by Team NextMinuteNews
