Those bursting crackers should be called ‘anti-national’: Maneka
As the festive season is around the corner, the debate on firecrackers has once again gained momentum. With the rising concerns over air pollution, especially in the national capital, New Delhi, many are calling for a ban on firecrackers. Joining the chorus is BJP leader Maneka Gandhi, who has appealed for a nationwide ban on firecrackers, citing the hazardous impact they have on the environment. In a strong statement, Gandhi said 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 the deteriorating air quality. The city’s air pollution levels have been a major concern for several years now, with the situation worsening during the festive season. The bursting of firecrackers during Diwali and other festivals has been identified as one of the primary reasons behind the spike in air pollution. According to Gandhi, the prime reason behind air pollution in New Delhi has been the bursting of firecrackers.
“If you will burst firecrackers worth ₹800 crore in two nights, then what will happen to the air?” Gandhi asked, highlighting the enormity of the problem. The amount spent on firecrackers is staggering, and the impact it has on the environment is devastating. The toxic fumes emitted by firecrackers not only pollute the air but also have a severe impact on the health of the people, especially children, elderly, and those suffering from respiratory diseases.
Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is not without merit. Many countries have already banned firecrackers due to their hazardous impact on the environment. In fact, several cities in India have also imposed a ban on firecrackers, citing the rising concerns over air pollution. The Supreme Court has also intervened in the matter, imposing restrictions on the sale and use of firecrackers.
However, despite the growing concerns and restrictions, the use of firecrackers continues to be a major problem. Many people, especially children, are unaware of the harm caused by firecrackers and continue to burst them, often in excess. The lack of awareness and the ease of availability of firecrackers have made it difficult to enforce a ban.
Gandhi’s statement that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” may seem harsh, but it highlights the gravity of the situation. The bursting of firecrackers is not just a matter of personal choice; it has a significant impact on the environment and the health of the people. Those who continue to burst firecrackers despite the growing concerns and restrictions are, in fact, contributing to the problem of air pollution.
The need of the hour is to create awareness about the harm caused by firecrackers and to take concrete steps to reduce their use. The government, civil society, and individuals must come together to address the issue of air pollution and find alternative ways to celebrate festivals without harming the environment.
In conclusion, Maneka Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is a timely reminder of the need to take urgent action to address the problem of air pollution. The bursting of firecrackers is a major contributor to air pollution, and it is essential to create awareness about the harm caused by them. Those who continue to burst firecrackers despite the growing concerns and restrictions must be made aware of the gravity of the situation and the impact it has on the environment and the health of the people.
Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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