Delhi’s air pollution has worsened, causing increasing discomfort for residents. In a press conference on Monday, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi stated that the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels have risen in northern India. She mentioned that the elderly and children are struggling to breathe due to stubble burning happening across various states. She accused the central government of being ineffective in addressing the issue. Atishi highlighted that Punjab has shown a reduction in stubble burning data compared to other states. She further pointed out that Madhya Pradesh has over 500 stubble burning cases, and the incidents are increasing in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana. She questioned why these states couldn’t reduce stubble burning if Punjab had managed to do so. Atishi stressed that it is the central government’s responsibility and urged them to take action. She said, “I request the central government to stop playing politics.” On the issue of the removal of GRAP-4, Atishi responded to the court’s comment by stating that GRAP decisions are made by the Central Air Quality Management (CQAM), and her government only enforces those restrictions and strives to work according to the rules.
