Rahul Gandhi Calls for Parliamentary Action on Air Pollution Crisis
Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has made a fervent appeal for the Indian government to address the escalating air pollution crisis through legislative action. On Sunday, Gandhi emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive discussion in Parliament, describing the financial and healthcare burdens imposed on citizens as extremely dangerous and requiring immediate resolution.
Demand for National Health Emergency Declaration
In a video message, Gandhi articulated his concerns by reading heartfelt messages from citizens across the country who are grappling with the severe impacts of air pollution. He stated, It is about time the government allows a discussion in Parliament on pollution and the PM should declare air pollution as a national health emergency. Gandhi stressed that the collective effort of governments at all levels, including chief ministers and the Prime Minister, is essential to allocate sufficient budgetary resources to combat this pressing issue.
Congress's Persistent Advocacy on Pollution
The Congress party, under Gandhi's leadership, has been vocal about air pollution for some time. During the recent Winter Session of Parliament, they had demanded a discussion on the matter, but it did not materialize. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh criticized the government for running away from such discussions, highlighting a controversial government statement that denied a link between pollution and lung problems. Ramesh remarked, This wasn't a Winter Session, it was a pollution session.
Gandhi has repeatedly called for detailed discussions on the deteriorating air quality, particularly in North India, where pollution levels have remained severe for extended periods. In response, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav expressed the government's willingness to debate the issue but accused the Opposition of disrupting proceedings when it was scheduled for discussion on the last day of the Winter Session.
Citizen Voices Highlight Human Toll of Pollution
Gandhi shared poignant stories from individuals affected by air pollution, underscoring the human dimension of the crisis. He read a message from Neeraj from Ghaziabad, who expressed guilt over his daughter's morning coughs and his mother's struggles as a kidney transplant patient, stating, For us, winter is not a season, it is fear. Another message from Pranav Dua from Jaipur revealed how pollution has altered daily life, with people checking the Air Quality Index before venturing outdoors and abandoning activities like cycling and running.
A Class 10 student from Pune offered practical solutions, advocating for stricter emission norms, expansion of public transport with electric buses, a shift to renewable energy, and support for farmers with alternatives to stubble burning. This reflects a growing public demand for science-based policies to tackle the pollution menace.
Alarming Air Quality Data in Delhi
Government data paints a grim picture of air pollution in the national capital. In 2025, Delhi experienced eight days of severe to severe-plus air quality and 157 days of poor to very poor air quality. These statistics highlight the persistent nature of the problem and the urgent need for effective interventions.
Gandhi's call to action resonates with widespread concerns about health, economy, and quality of life. As air pollution continues to pose significant risks, his demand for a parliamentary discussion and declaration of a national health emergency aims to galvanize collective efforts towards sustainable solutions.
