New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has attributed the rising pollution levels in the capital to the “bad politics” of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), urging residents not to succumb to hatred or blame. In a recent statement, Atishi emphasized the need for cooperation among all parties to effectively combat the air quality crisis affecting Delhi, especially as winter approaches and pollution levels typically spike .
Atishi’s remarks came amid increasing criticism from the BJP, which accused her administration of negligence in managing the pollution crisis. Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva has claimed that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government lacks a viable action plan, stating, “The Atishi-led government has made empty promises without implementing any substantial measures.” He cited specific sources of pollution, including stubble burning from neighboring states and dust from construction sites, while accusing the government of failing to collaborate effectively with Punjab to address these issues.
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Despite the BJP’s assertions, Atishi defended her government’s efforts, noting that Delhi had maintained good air quality for around 200 days this year before the recent decline. She emphasized that it is critical to focus on solutions rather than finger-pointing. “This is not the time for blame games; it’s a time for collective responsibility,” she said, appealing to the public and political leaders to work together .
The chief minister also announced measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to mitigate pollution, including increased inspections at construction sites and enhanced street cleaning operations. In response to the escalating air quality index, she remarked, “We need to act now, and this requires everyone’s participation” .
As the debate over pollution intensifies, Atishi’s “don’t hate” message aims to shift the focus from political rivalry to community action, encouraging a unified front against the pressing environmental challenges facing Delhi.
