Punjab CM Targets BJP Over Delhi Pollution, Blasts 'Defamatory' Claims on Stubble Burning

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Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing its leaders of defaming the state's farmers by blaming them for Delhi's poor air quality. Mann's remarks come as Delhi grapples with severe air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering between 450 and 500. Mann pointed out that despite Punjab witnessing a 70-80% reduction in stubble burning cases this year, Delhi's air quality remains woefully poor. The Punjab CM emphasized that the state's farmers have made significant strides in controlling stubble burning, with the Central Government and Union Agriculture Minister acknowledging their efforts. Mann questioned why Delhi's air pollution crisis persists despite the absence of stubble burning in Punjab. He called on the BJP-led Centre and Delhi government to address the issue, rather than dragging Punjab into the political fray. The Punjab CM also praised the state's farmers, who are the 'anndatas' (food providers) of the country, and emphasized that they should be appreciated, not defamed. The BJP had previously dismissed Mann's claims that stubble burning in Punjab has no role in Delhi's air pollution as 'ridiculous'. However, Mann's remarks come on the back of Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa apologizing for the air pollution crisis and acknowledging its impact on children's health. As Delhi struggles to breathe, Mann urged the Centre and Delhi government to take immediate action to address the air pollution crisis. He also asked the BJP to praise Punjab's farmers for their efforts in controlling stubble burning, rather than making baseless accusations.