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 alarming levels of air pollution in New Delhi. According to Gandhi, the primary reason behind the deteriorating air quality in the national capital is the bursting of firecrackers. She emphasized that the massive amount of money spent on firecrackers, estimated to be around ₹800 crore in just two nights, is a significant contributor to the air pollution crisis.
Gandhi’s statement has ignited a heated debate, with many questioning the need for such a drastic measure. However, the BJP leader remains firm in her stance, arguing that the harm caused by firecrackers far outweighs any temporary joy or celebration. She went on to say that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” due to the significant harm they cause to the environment and public health. This bold statement has sparked a mixed reaction, with some hailing Gandhi’s concern for the environment and others criticizing her for being overly dramatic.
The issue of air pollution in New Delhi is a pressing concern, with the city consistently ranking among the most polluted cities in the world. The air quality in the national capital has been deteriorating over the years, with the particulate matter (PM) levels often exceeding the safe limits. The situation becomes even more critical during the festive season, when the bursting of firecrackers releases a massive amount of pollutants into the air. These pollutants include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and other toxic gases, which can cause severe respiratory problems and other health issues.
Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is not without precedent. Several cities and countries have already implemented such bans, citing the adverse impact of firecrackers on the environment and public health. For instance, the Supreme Court of India had imposed a ban on the sale and use of firecrackers in New Delhi during the Diwali festival in 2017. However, the ban was later lifted, and the sale and use of firecrackers were allowed, albeit with certain restrictions.
The argument in favor of a ban on firecrackers is compelling. The environmental impact of firecrackers is well-documented, with studies showing that they release a significant amount of pollutants into the air. These pollutants can cause severe health problems, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. Moreover, the noise pollution caused by firecrackers can be a significant nuisance, affecting not just humans but also animals and birds.
On the other hand, the argument against a ban on firecrackers is also valid. Firecrackers are an integral part of many festivals and celebrations in India, and a ban on them could be seen as an attack on the country’s cultural heritage. Many people believe that firecrackers are a necessary part of the festive spirit and that a ban on them would be an overreaction.
However, it is essential to consider the long-term consequences of our actions. The harm caused by firecrackers is not limited to the environment; it also has a significant impact on public health. The air pollution caused by firecrackers can exacerbate existing health conditions, such as asthma and other respiratory problems. Moreover, the pollutants released by firecrackers can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
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 air pollution crisis in India. While the issue is complex, and there are valid arguments on both sides, it is essential to consider the long-term consequences of our actions. The harm caused by firecrackers is undeniable, and it is our responsibility to take steps to mitigate this harm. As Gandhi said, those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” due to the significant harm they cause to the environment and public health. It is time for us to take a stand and work towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.
News Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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