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Delhi’s Air Quality Crisis Sparks Political Clash
As Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) soared past 400, entering the “severe” category, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for offering “changing excuses every year” instead of solving the capital’s toxic air problem. The BJP countered, accusing Gandhi of hypocrisy and blaming stubble burning in neighboring states.
Rahul Gandhi’s Attack: “No Action, Only Blame Games”
On social media, Gandhi criticized the BJP’s handling of Delhi’s pollution:
“Delhi’s air is poison, and the BJP’s response is excuses. Every year, a new story—stubble burning, fireworks, weather. When will accountability replace blame games?”
His remarks came as residents reported breathing difficulties, throat irritation, and school closures. Gandhi questioned the lack of long-term solutions, citing absent smog towers and weak enforcement of pollution controls.
BJP’s Defense: “Congress Did Nothing Either”
BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra hit back, accusing Gandhi of “selective amnesia,” noting that pollution plagued Delhi even under Congress rule. He highlighted BJP initiatives like electric vehicle promotions and the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav pointed to central schemes like the ₹3,000 crore subsidy for crop residue management, urging Punjab’s Congress government to curb farm fires.
Experts Frustrated: “Stop Politicizing, Start Fixing”
Environmentalists like Dr. Anumita Roychowdhury (CSE) criticized the blame game, stressing the need for systemic reforms:
– Better public transport
– Stricter industrial regulations
– Year-round waste management
The Supreme Court also intervened, demanding urgent action: “People are suffering. Enough is enough.”
Public Outrage Grows
Hashtags like #DelhiAirEmergency trended as citizens shared health struggles. One parent tweeted:
“My child can’t play outside for weeks. When will leaders stop fighting and act?”
What’s Next for Delhi’s Pollution Crisis?
With temporary measures like odd-even rules reintroduced, long-term solutions remain missing. Until political rivals unite for action, Delhi’s toxic air will keep endangering lives.
Stay updated on Delhi’s pollution and political developments with NextMinuteNews.
