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 city’s deteriorating air quality is the bursting of firecrackers, which she believes is a menace that needs to be addressed immediately.
Gandhi’s statement came as a response to the massive amounts of money spent on firecrackers during the festive season. “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. The BJP leader’s comments have sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the need for a blanket ban on firecrackers.
However, Gandhi’s concerns are not unfounded. The air quality in New Delhi has been a major cause for concern in recent years, with the city consistently ranking among the most polluted cities in the world. The situation becomes particularly dire during the festive season, when the bursting of firecrackers releases massive amounts of toxic pollutants into the air. These pollutants can have severe health implications, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer.
Gandhi’s suggestion that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” has sparked outrage among some sections of society. Many argue that firecrackers are an integral part of Indian festivals and culture, and that a ban would be an overreach of government authority. However, Gandhi’s comments are not without merit. In a country where the air quality is already precarious, the bursting of firecrackers can have disastrous consequences.
The economic implications of firecrackers are also worth considering. Gandhi’s estimate of ₹800 crore spent on firecrackers in two nights is a staggering amount, especially when one considers the potential benefits of redirecting this money towards more productive and environmentally friendly pursuits. Moreover, the firecracker industry is a significant contributor to air pollution, with many manufacturers using toxic chemicals and pollutants in their products.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards eco-friendly and sustainable celebrations. Many individuals and organizations have begun to explore alternative ways of celebrating festivals, such as using eco-friendly firecrackers or opting for community-based celebrations that do not involve the bursting of firecrackers. These initiatives are a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to address the scale and severity of the problem.
The government has a critical role to play in regulating the use of firecrackers and promoting environmentally friendly celebrations. Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is a drastic measure, but it highlights the need for urgent action. The government could consider implementing stricter regulations on the manufacture and sale of firecrackers, as well as promoting public awareness campaigns to educate people about the dangers of air pollution.
Ultimately, the decision to ban firecrackers or promote eco-friendly celebrations is a complex one that requires careful consideration of multiple factors. However, one thing is clear: the current situation is unsustainable, and something needs to be done to address the alarming levels of air pollution in our cities. As Gandhi so aptly put it, those who burst firecrackers despite knowing the harm they cause should be called “anti-national” – for they are prioritizing their own interests over the well-being of the nation.
In conclusion, the debate around firecrackers and air pollution is a nuanced and complex one. While there are valid arguments on both sides, it is clear that something needs to be done to address the scale and severity of the problem. Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers may be a drastic measure, but it highlights the need for urgent action. As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize the health and well-being of our citizens and our environment, and explore sustainable and eco-friendly ways of celebrating our festivals.
News Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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