Punjab's Role Vindicated: Stubble Burning No Longer Blamed for Delhi Pollution

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann criticizes BJP for unjustly blaming Punjab farmers for Delhi's pollution issues. With decreased stubble burning, Mann challenges the narrative, emphasizing the state's successful reduction efforts. He urges a focus on genuine causes of Delhi's poor air quality, rather than politicized scapegoating.

In a pointed critique, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has taken aim at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the party has falsely blamed Punjab farmers for Delhi's notorious air quality issues. Mann's remarks come amidst a decline in stubble burning cases in Punjab, which were often cited as a major factor in Delhi's pollution woes.

Highlighting the current air quality index (AQI) discrepancies, Mann noted that while Punjab cities boast AQI levels between 70 and 130, Delhi's figures remain starkly higher at 450 to 500, despite significantly reduced farm fires. His comments raise questions about the actual sources of pollution in the national capital, as he urges the BJP-led governments in Delhi and the Center to address genuine pollution causes.

Echoing a broader sentiment, Mann called for appreciation of Punjab's farmers, dubbing them 'anndatas,' or food providers. He criticized the politicization of air quality issues and reiterated that Punjab's agricultural community should not bear the brunt of misplaced accusations but rather be acknowledged for their efforts in reducing stubble burning.

(With inputs from agencies.)