AAP Minister Dr. Balbir Singh Calls for a National Action Plan on Pollution; Slams Delhi BJP Leaders for Blame Game Against Punjab Farmers
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Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Minister Dr. Balbir Singh has called for a united, science-based national approach to tackle India’s pollution crisis, instead of indulging in petty politics and blame games. Extending greetings on the occasion of Vishwakarma Day, Dr. Balbir urged the Centre to convene a joint meeting of all Chief Ministers, Environment and Health Ministers, and environmental experts to draft a comprehensive National Action Plan on Pollution.
Dr. Balbir strongly condemned certain Delhi BJP leaders and ministers for making “irresponsible and baseless” remarks blaming Punjab’s farmers for Delhi’s rising pollution levels. “Before pointing fingers at Punjab, they must understand that pollution is not the problem of one state or one community. It is a national crisis that requires cooperation, not confrontation,” he said.
He questioned the logic behind blaming Punjab for Delhi’s smog, saying, “If the smoke from Punjab’s fields doesn’t pollute Punjab, Chandigarh or Ambala, then how does it suddenly pollute Delhi? The main causes are vehicular emissions, industrial discharge, and construction dust within Delhi itself.”
Dr. Balbir appealed to BJP leaders to stop vilifying the farmers who feed the nation. “These are the same farmers who have already suffered the pain of Operation Sindoor, floods, and now diseases from virus and fungus. Instead of troubling them, think of how to help them and find solutions together,” he stated.
Highlighting the severe health impact of air pollution, Dr. Balbir warned that the days following Diwali see a sharp rise in emergency cases. “Hospitals witness over 15% more cases of respiratory distress and burn injuries after Diwali. Children struggle to breathe; we are forced to use nebulizers and strong steroid medicines with serious side effects. This is a human crisis, not a political issue,” he said.
Urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take personal initiative, Dr. Balbir said, “You call the entire nation your family, so please bring your family together. Sit with farmers, experts, and Chief Ministers, and build a National Action Plan for pollution control. Only then can we protect our children, our environment, and our country’s future.”
Dr. Balbir said that India cannot progress without addressing pollution collectively. “The time for speeches and blame is over. The time for national action is now,” he concluded.