The Supreme Court has criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its ineffectiveness in curbing air pollution in Delhi, particularly concerning stubble burning in neighboring states. The court stated that the CAQM has not taken adequate action against local officers despite the rising crop burning in North Indian states, a significant contributor to Delhi's hazardous air quality during winter. Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih questioned the CAQM's ability to enforce the CAQM Act and demanded specific actions taken to curb crop residue burning in Punjab and Haryana. The court noted the "total non-compliance" of the CAQM Act and questioned the absence of committees formed to address stubble burning.
The Supreme Court has directed the CAQM to hold a meeting of experts within two weeks to assess the reasons behind the pollution levels and work out long-term remedial measures. The court has also granted the CAQM the authority to take proactive measures to reduce air pollution in Delhi-NCR, including the implementation of GRAP IV restrictions such as work-from-home policies. The court emphasized the need for the CAQM to consult with stakeholders and ensure that its efforts translate into reducing pollution. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for December 10.
In other news, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has sought the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against students who allegedly raised "provocative" slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on campus. The incident occurred during an event organized to mark the sixth anniversary of the 2020 campus violence. According to the JNU administration, the slogans were "highly objectionable, provocative, and inflammatory" and constituted "direct contempt" of the Supreme Court. The university has identified several students, including the current JNUSU president Aditi Mishra, and accused them of violating the JNU Code of Conduct and potentially disrupting public order and campus harmony. The university has initiated an internal inquiry and has requested the Delhi Police to file an FIR under relevant sections of the law.
