New Delhi, 1 December (H.S.): Chief Justice Suryakant remarked on Monday that farmers should not be solely blamed for pollution due to stubble burning, noting that such practices occurred even during the COVID-19 period when Delhi's skies remained clear and blue. He urged against politicizing or turning the issue into a matter of ego, emphasizing that stubble burning represents just one pollution source among many.

The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for December 10.During the proceedings, the court questioned the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on its concrete plans to mitigate air pollution and directed it, along with other authorities, to review steps taken for effective control.

CJI Suryakant stressed the need to address alternative pollution causes in Delhi beyond stubble burning, rather than framing it as a political or ego-driven conflict.The CAQM informed the court that it had consulted all stakeholders.

In response to queries on short-term measures, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Centre, stated that an action-taken report could be filed based on inputs from relevant states and authorities.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar