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 sparked a controversy by calling for a nationwide ban on firecrackers, citing the severe air pollution in New Delhi as the primary reason. In a statement that has sent shockwaves across the nation, Gandhi asserted that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national”.
Gandhi’s comments come at a time when the national capital is struggling to cope with hazardous air quality levels. The city’s air pollution has become a major concern, with the government and regulatory bodies scrambling to find solutions to mitigate the problem. According to Gandhi, the bursting of firecrackers is a significant contributor to the city’s air pollution woes. “If you will burst firecrackers worth ₹800 crore in two nights, then what will happen to the air?” she asked, highlighting the enormity of the issue.
The BJP leader’s statement has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the need for such a drastic measure. While some have welcomed Gandhi’s call for a ban, others have argued that firecrackers are an integral part of Indian festivals and culture. However, Gandhi remains adamant that the harm caused by firecrackers far outweighs any cultural or traditional significance they may hold. “Those who burst firecrackers should be called ‘anti-national’ because they are causing harm to their own country and their own people,” she said.
Gandhi’s comments have also raised questions about the role of individual responsibility in mitigating environmental pollution. While the government and regulatory bodies have a significant part to play in addressing the issue, it is also essential for citizens to take ownership of their actions and their impact on the environment. By branding those who burst firecrackers as “anti-national”, Gandhi is, in effect, appealing to people’s sense of patriotism and national pride, urging them to consider the broader consequences of their actions.
The issue of air pollution in New Delhi is a complex one, with multiple factors contributing to the problem. While firecrackers are undoubtedly a significant source of pollution, other factors such as vehicular emissions, industrial waste, and crop burning also play a substantial role. However, Gandhi’s focus on firecrackers is not entirely misplaced. The bursting of firecrackers during festivals like Diwali releases large amounts of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and other pollutants into the air, exacerbating the existing pollution problem.
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness about the need to celebrate festivals in a more environmentally friendly manner. Many people have begun to opt for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional firecrackers, such as sky lanterns or diyas. Others have chosen to celebrate festivals without firecrackers altogether, instead focusing on the spiritual and cultural significance of the occasion.
Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is not without precedent. Several cities and countries have already implemented similar bans, citing concerns about air pollution and public health. In India, the Supreme Court has also weighed in on the issue, imposing restrictions on the sale and use of firecrackers in certain areas.
As the debate around firecrackers and air pollution continues to unfold, it is essential to consider the broader implications of our actions. While cultural and traditional practices are important, they must be balanced against the need to protect the environment and public health. By embracing more sustainable and eco-friendly practices, we can work towards creating a healthier and more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
In conclusion, Maneka Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers has sparked a necessary debate about the impact of our actions on the environment. While the issue is complex and multifaceted, it is essential to consider the harm caused by firecrackers and to explore alternative, more sustainable ways of celebrating festivals. By working together and taking individual responsibility for our actions, we can mitigate the problem of air pollution and create a better future for ourselves and our planet.
News source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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