Those bursting crackers should be called ‘anti-national’: Maneka
As the festive season approaches, the debate around firecrackers and their impact on the environment has once again gained momentum. BJP leader Maneka Gandhi has weighed in on the issue, calling for a nationwide ban on firecrackers and labeling those who burst them as “anti-national”. According to Gandhi, the primary reason behind the alarming levels of air pollution in New Delhi is the bursting of firecrackers, which not only harms the environment but also poses a significant threat to public health.
Gandhi’s statement comes at a time when the national capital is struggling to cope with hazardous air quality, which has been exacerbated by the burning of firecrackers during festivals like Diwali. The BJP leader emphasized that the sheer scale of firecracker bursting is staggering, with ₹800 crore worth of crackers being burst in just two nights. “If you will burst firecrackers worth ₹800 crore in two nights, then what will happen to the air?” she asked, highlighting the devastating impact of such activities on the environment.
The issue of air pollution in New Delhi is a pressing concern, with the city’s residents facing severe health risks due to the poor air quality. The burning of firecrackers releases toxic pollutants like particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere, which can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. Moreover, the pollution caused by firecrackers also affects the city’s flora and fauna, causing long-term damage to the ecosystem.
Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is not an isolated demand. Many environmentalists, health experts, and citizens have been advocating for a ban on firecrackers, citing the devastating impact of such activities on the environment and public health. In fact, several cities across the country have already implemented restrictions on firecracker bursting, with some even imposing a complete ban on the sale and use of firecrackers.
However, the issue is complex, and a blanket ban on firecrackers may not be a straightforward solution. Firecrackers are an integral part of many Indian festivals, and a ban on them could be seen as an attack on cultural traditions and religious practices. Moreover, the firecracker industry is a significant employer, with thousands of people depending on it for their livelihood.
Despite these challenges, Gandhi’s statement highlights the need for a nuanced approach to addressing the issue of air pollution caused by firecrackers. Rather than simply banning firecrackers, the government could explore alternative solutions, such as promoting eco-friendly firecrackers, enforcing stricter regulations on firecracker bursting, and launching public awareness campaigns to educate people about the risks associated with firecracker bursting.
Moreover, Gandhi’s labeling of firecracker burstings as “anti-national” is a significant statement, as it highlights the need for a shift in public perception around the issue. By framing the issue as a matter of national concern, Gandhi is emphasizing that the bursting of firecrackers is not just a personal choice, but a decision that has far-reaching consequences for the environment, public health, and the nation as a whole.
In conclusion, Maneka Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers and her labeling of firecracker burstings as “anti-national” are significant statements that highlight the need for urgent action to address the issue of air pollution caused by firecrackers. While a blanket ban on firecrackers may not be a straightforward solution, it is essential to explore alternative solutions that balance cultural traditions with environmental and public health concerns. As the festive season approaches, it is crucial for citizens, policymakers, and stakeholders to come together to find a solution that protects the environment, promotes public health, and preserves cultural traditions.
Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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