Delhi smog sparks political row, BJP alleges conspiracy in Punjab
New Delhi: Political allegations and counter-allegations have intensified after air pollution rose in Delhi following Deepavali and a thick layer of smog covered several areas. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has described the sudden rise in stubble-burning incidents in Punjab as an alleged conspiracy, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Congress have questioned the Delhi government’s pollution-control efforts and Air Quality Index (AQI) data.
Delhi Cabinet minister Kapil Mishra claimed that between November 5 and 7, 100 to 125 stubble-burning incidents were recorded in Punjab, but on November 8, the evening of Deepavali, the number rose to around 1,200. He alleged that some people deliberately set fire to farmers’ fields while they were celebrating the festival. Mishra demanded that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann register an FIR, investigate the matter and identify those responsible. However, this remains an allegation of conspiracy, and no independent confirmation has yet emerged.
Congress leader Pawan Khera questioned the non-availability of data from Delhi’s pollution monitoring centres. He claimed that on the night between November 8 and 9, PM2.5 readings were not recorded at several centres. Aam Aadmi Party’s Delhi unit president Saurabh Bharadwaj alleged that some monitoring centres were shut and new centres were installed at locations where pollution is comparatively lower. He raised concerns over possible manipulation of data.
On the other hand, BJP leaders held previous governments responsible for the pollution problem. Meanwhile, according to Central Pollution Control Board data, Delhi’s average AQI was recorded at 335 on the morning of November 9, placing it in the very poor category. In many areas, it crossed 400.
The exchange of allegations between political parties continues, but for Delhi residents, relief from pollution and effective control measures remain the biggest challenge.
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