The Supreme Court of India has strongly criticized Punjab and Haryana for failing to effectively handle the problem of stubble burning, which significantly worsens air pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas. On Wednesday, the court summoned the Chief Secretaries of both states to explain why strict measures haven’t been enforced against violators.
Key Points Raised by the Court
- Lack of Enforcement: The court criticized state authorities for inaction despite ISRO satellite data identifying fire locations. Instead of prosecuting offenders, authorities often impose minimal fines, failing to address the issue effectively. This leniency undermines efforts to curb environmental damage, prompting the court to demand stricter enforcement and accountability in such cases.
- CAQM’s Role: The court referred to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) as a “toothless tiger,” criticizing its inability to ensure compliance with anti-pollution directives.
- Financial Support for Farmers: Punjab was specifically called out for not seeking central government funds to help farmers adopt eco-friendly alternatives, like providing equipment to manage crop residue without burning it.
Summons and Next Steps
The Chief Secretary of Haryana must appear in court next Wednesday to justify the state’s inaction, and Punjab’s officials are expected to present their plan to comply with orders. The Supreme Court has also directed CAQM to take stricter actions against state officers who fail to enforce measures in Punjab and Haryana.
The Bigger Problem
Stubble burning during the harvest season releases pollutants that worsen air quality in North India, especially in Delhi. The court’s intervention highlights the urgent need for states to act decisively to reduce this practice and support farmers in finding sustainable solutions.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
