“No Stubble Burning Now, Why Is Delhi Polluted?” Mann Questions BJP

New Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has criticized the BJP for repeatedly blaming Punjab farmers for Delhi’s air pollution, questioning why the national capital is facing a crisis despite no current stubble burning.
Mann noted that following every paddy harvest, BJP leaders have historically linked Delhi’s poor air quality to stubble burning in Punjab. However, he pointed out that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in major Punjab cities currently ranges between 70 and 130, while Delhi’s AQI is dangerously high at 450 to 500. “No smoke is coming from Punjab, yet Delhi’s situation is worsening. At least now they should accept that Punjab has no role in Delhi’s poor air quality,” he said in a video message.
The Punjab CM highlighted that severe floods in the state had delayed paddy harvesting this year. Despite this, he said, Delhi ministers had already begun pointing fingers at Punjab. Mann praised the efforts of farmers, NGOs, and the Punjab government in controlling stubble burning, noting that cases in the state have decreased by 70 to 80 percent—a reduction acknowledged by the central government and the Union Agriculture Minister.
He emphasized that wheat sowing has already begun and that there are currently no incidents of stubble burning. “Earlier claims that Punjab’s smoke travels to Delhi were politically motivated. Now, with no stubble burning, Delhi still suffers from poor air quality. This proves that Punjab was unfairly targeted,” Mann said, urging the central and Delhi governments to focus on tackling pollution in the capital rather than defaming farmers.
Mann criticized the current situation in Delhi, where flights are being canceled and outdoor activities are difficult due to the hazardous air quality. He called on authorities to prioritize solutions for the city’s pollution problem and to recognize Punjab farmers for their vital role in feeding the nation, rather than dragging them into political disputes.
The remarks come amid ongoing debates between Punjab and Delhi authorities over the causes of smog, with Delhi BJP leaders maintaining that stubble burning remains a significant factor in the capital’s air pollution.
Mann concluded by reiterating that Punjab’s farmers are providers of the nation’s food supply and should be appreciated, not defamed, while Delhi and central authorities take concrete action to improve air quality.