Delhi Police Detain Protesters Demanding Clean Air
In a dramatic crackdown, Delhi police detained dozens of parents, children, and environmental activists during a peaceful protest against the city’s toxic air pollution. The demonstration, organized under the banner “Help Us Breathe,” saw participants—including young kids wearing masks—holding placards and chanting slogans outside the Delhi Secretariat on Wednesday. Critics accuse authorities of suppressing dissent instead of addressing the public health crisis.
Why Protesters Are Fighting for Clean Air
Delhi’s air quality ranks among the worst globally, with hazardous PM2.5 and PM10 levels causing severe respiratory illnesses, especially in children and the elderly. Groups like Warrior Moms and Let Me Breathe led the protest, demanding:
– A ban on crop burning in neighboring states
– Stricter regulation of construction dust
– Faster transition to clean public transport
“We’re not criminals—we’re parents fighting for our kids’ right to breathe,” said Priyanka Verma, a detained mother. “Hospitals overflow every winter. How many more lives will it take?”
Backlash Over Police Action
Eyewitnesses reported detentions within an hour, with police citing Section 144 (unlawful assembly). Social media videos showed officers escorting protesters, including minors, into buses.
While Delhi Police called the protest a “public order disruption,” activists slammed the response. “Detaining kids for asking for clean air is shameful,” said environmentalist Bhavreen Kandhari.
Political reactions were divided:
– AAP’s Gopal Rai called it “politically motivated.”
– Congress’s Rahul Gandhi accused the government of “suppressing dissent.”
Delhi’s Pollution Crisis: A Broken Record
The protest coincided with AQI levels in the “very poor” to “severe” range, fueled by stubble burning and vehicular emissions. Despite measures like GRAP and odd-even schemes, enforcement remains weak.
Doctors warn of long-term risks:
– 30% spike in childhood asthma cases each winter
– Chronic lung and heart diseases
– Developmental delays in kids
“This is a medical emergency,” said Dr. Arvind Kumar of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
What’s Next for the Movement?
Protesters were released after signing undertakings barring future demonstrations. Activists plan to escalate efforts, including:
– Legal challenges
– Global awareness campaigns
“If protests won’t work, we’ll use every legal and diplomatic tool,” said Vimlendu Jha of Swechha.
As Delhi braces for another smog-filled winter, residents wonder if their cries for breathable air will ever be heard.
Final Thought:
When children are detained for demanding clean air, it’s not just a protest—it’s a fight for survival.
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