A fresh political storm has erupted in Delhi over the city’s persistent air pollution crisis, with a senior Delhi minister alleging that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is deliberately burning waste to aggravate pollution levels. In an emotionally charged statement, the minister claimed that such actions are not only irresponsible but also harmful to public health, urging Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to intervene and put an immediate stop to the practice.
Delhi has been grappling with hazardous air quality for weeks, with residents reporting breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and a spike in respiratory illnesses. While multiple factors like vehicular emissions, industrial activity, construction dust, and stubble burning in neighboring states contribute to the smog, the minister alleged that waste burning within city limits has emerged as a key, avoidable contributor.
Addressing the media, the minister said, “I request Kejriwal with folded hands please stop this. Delhi’s people are suffering. Burning waste only worsens the situation and puts lives at risk.” The remark, loaded with political undertones, has intensified the already bitter war of words between rival parties in the capital.
According to the minister, several instances of garbage and plastic waste being set on fire have been reported across different parts of Delhi. He claimed that these incidents are not isolated but systematic, accusing local civic authorities aligned with AAP of turning a blind eye. “This is not governance; this is negligence,” he said, adding that waste burning releases toxic gases that severely degrade air quality.
AAP leaders, however, have strongly denied the allegations, calling them “baseless and politically motivated.” Party spokespersons argued that AAP has consistently advocated against waste burning and has taken steps to improve solid waste management through segregation, composting, and scientific disposal. They countered by accusing rival parties of shifting blame instead of offering solutions to Delhi’s pollution problem.
Environmental experts point out that waste burning is indeed a serious concern. Burning plastic, rubber, and mixed garbage releases harmful pollutants such as dioxins, furans, and particulate matter, which can have long-term health impacts. “Even small-scale waste burning can significantly worsen local air quality,” said an environmental scientist, adding that strict enforcement is essential to curb the practice.
Public reaction to the controversy has been mixed. While some residents echoed the minister’s concerns, saying they frequently witness garbage being burnt in their neighborhoods, others criticized politicians for indulging in blame games instead of focusing on effective pollution control measures. Social media platforms were flooded with videos and photos allegedly showing waste burning, reigniting debates over civic accountability.
The issue has also drawn attention to Delhi’s broader waste management challenges. Despite repeated campaigns and regulations, illegal waste burning continues, often due to lack of proper disposal facilities, poor monitoring, and weak enforcement. Civic bodies have rules in place to penalize offenders, but implementation remains inconsistent.
As pollution levels remain in the “severe” category on several days, pressure is mounting on the Delhi government to act decisively. Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to toxic air could have lasting consequences, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.
The minister concluded his statement by calling for cooperation rather than confrontation. “This is not about politics; it’s about people’s lives,” he said. Whether this appeal will translate into concrete action remains to be seen, but the controversy has once again highlighted how deeply pollution has become intertwined with politics in the national capital.
