On Friday, the Supreme Court of India expressed serious concerns regarding the effectiveness of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in tackling the issue of stubble burning in neighbouring states, which has significantly contributed to air pollution in Delhi during the winter months. The ongoing environmental crisis, particularly during the colder season, has become a critical public health concern, prompting the court to demand accountability from the CAQM.
During the hearing, a bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih scrutinised the commission’s actions under the CAQM Act. They questioned the CAQM’s ability to implement its provisions effectively, particularly regarding stubble burning in states like Punjab and Haryana. Justice Oka remarked on the apparent “total non-compliance” of the Act, asking the commission to demonstrate any directions issued to stakeholders to combat this issue.
“It is all in the air, nothing they have shown regarding what has been done in the National Capital Region (NCR) states,” Justice Oka stated, highlighting the lack of concrete actions taken to address the ongoing crisis. His remarks underscore the frustration surrounding the commission’s perceived inaction despite the legal framework intended to mitigate air pollution.
The Additional Solicitor General (ASG), Aishwarya Bhati, represented the Centre in court and provided an affidavit detailing steps taken by the government, including the issuance of advisories and guidelines aimed at managing the pollution crisis. However, these measures did not satisfy the court. The justices seemed unconvinced by the government’s approach, indicating that advisory measures alone were insufficient to address the pressing problem of air quality degradation.
Aprajita Singh, acting as amicus curiae, contributed to the discussion by referencing recent newspaper reports that indicated a resurgence in stubble burning in the states adjacent to Delhi. She called for the CAQM to clarify what specific actions were being taken to curb the pollution resulting from these agricultural practices.
Stubble burning has long been a contentious issue contributing to the air pollution problem in northern India. Farmers often burn crop residue to clear fields quickly for the next planting season, leading to significant smoke and particulate matter that drift into urban areas like Delhi. The Supreme Court’s remarks reflect a broader concern about the effectiveness of existing laws and the need for robust enforcement mechanisms to manage environmental challenges.
The CAQM’s mandate includes not only monitoring air quality but also implementing measures to improve it. The court’s criticism highlights the urgent need for the commission to demonstrate tangible progress and enforce compliance among stakeholders involved in agricultural practices that lead to pollution.
The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the importance of accountability in environmental management, particularly regarding air quality in Delhi. As the winter months approach, the court’s directive places pressure on the CAQM to take decisive actions to mitigate pollution from stubble burning. The judiciary’s involvement serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect public health and the environment.
As the situation evolves, all eyes will be on the CAQM to see what concrete measures will be implemented in response to the court’s directives and the growing public outcry over air quality issues in the national capital.