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 joined the chorus, calling for a nationwide ban on firecrackers and terming those who burst them as “anti-national”. In a statement that has sparked a heated discussion, Gandhi emphasized the need to take drastic measures to curb air pollution in the national capital, New Delhi.
According to Gandhi, the primary reason behind the deteriorating air quality in New Delhi is the bursting of firecrackers during festivals like Diwali. She argued that the massive amount of money spent on firecrackers, estimated to be around ₹800 crore in just two nights, is not only a waste but also a significant contributor to the city’s pollution woes. “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 firecrackers on the environment.
Gandhi’s statement has reignited the debate around the use of firecrackers during festivals. While some argue that firecrackers are an integral part of Indian culture and traditions, others believe that they are a major contributor to air pollution and should be banned. The BJP leader’s suggestion to brand those who burst firecrackers as “anti-national” has, however, sparked controversy, with some accusing her of being overly dramatic and authoritarian.
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 burning of firecrackers during Diwali and other festivals has been identified as a major contributor to the city’s poor air quality, with the particulate matter (PM) levels often exceeding safe limits. The situation is exacerbated by the city’s unique geography, with the surrounding Himalayas trapping pollutants and preventing them from dispersing.
The call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is not new, with several cities and states having already implemented similar bans in the past. The Supreme Court has also weighed in on the issue, ruling that firecrackers can only be burst between 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali. However, the implementation of these rules has been patchy, with many people continuing to burst firecrackers with impunity.
Gandhi’s statement has also sparked a debate around the role of individual responsibility in addressing environmental issues. While some argue that the onus lies with the government to implement and enforce laws, others believe that individuals must take responsibility for their actions and make environmentally conscious choices. The suggestion that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” raises important questions about the balance between individual freedom and collective responsibility.
In conclusion, the debate around firecrackers and air pollution is complex and multifaceted. While there are valid arguments on both sides, it is clear that something needs to be done to address the alarming levels of air pollution in New Delhi. Maneka Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers and her suggestion that those who burst them should be branded as “anti-national” may be controversial, but it has sparked an important conversation around the need for individual and collective action to protect the environment.
As we move forward, it is essential that we consider the impact of our actions on the environment and take steps to mitigate harm. This may involve making difficult choices, such as giving up firecrackers during festivals, but it is essential for the well-being of our planet and future generations. Ultimately, the decision to ban firecrackers or not is a complex one that requires careful consideration of the competing interests and values at stake. However, one thing is clear: we must take action to address the pressing issue of air pollution in New Delhi, and we must do it now.
News Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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