Supreme Court's Tough Message: Jail Farmers Who Burn Stubble to Set an Example

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Supreme Court on Wednesday took its toughest stance yet on the issue of stubble burning and air pollution, which worsens every year in Delhi-NCR. While hearing the case, Chief Justice (CJI) B.R. Gavai said that some farmers who repeatedly violate the rules should be sent to jail so that an example is set and others learn a lesson. The court said in a stern tone, if some people go behind bars, it will send the right message. Why are you shying away from taking punitive action against the farmers?

Amicus curiae Aparajita Singh, appearing before a bench headed by CJI Justice B.R. Gavai, pointed out that despite farmers being provided subsidies and equipment, the problem persists. She offered a startling insight, saying, “Last time, farmers said they were asked to burn stubble when the satellite wasn’t passing over the area.” She added that despite detailed Supreme Court orders since 2018, officials simply feign helplessness.

The CJI expressed displeasure at this, questioning why officials were not considering punitive provisions to address the issue. However, he also clarified, “Farmers are important to us, and we are able to eat because of them… but that does not mean we cannot protect the environment.”

The Supreme Court has strongly reprimanded the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), as well as the governments of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, over vacant positions on pollution control boards. The court directed all relevant departments and state governments to fill all vacancies within three months. Furthermore, the court ordered the CAQM to submit a detailed report within three weeks on measures to curb air pollution.