The Supreme Court on Wednesday came heavily on the Punjab and Haryana governments for their failure to take action against stubble burning which had led to the worsening of air pollution in Delhi and nearby regions during the winter months.

The apex court has described the increase in stubble-burning incidents in both states as “absolute defiance” of the Commission of Air Quality Management. The court had summoned the Haryana chief secretary to appear on October 23.

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Supreme Court had also strongly criticised the central government panel responsible for overseeing air pollution in the national capital region, calling it a “toothless wonder” and expressing disappointment over its failure to implement directives.

The bench of Justice Abhay S Oka, Justice AG Masih, and Justice A Amanullah was hearing a case of non-compliance with orders passed by the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region (NCR), particularly regarding stubble burning.

“Who is appearing for Punjab and Haryana? None of the members of the commission are qualified for dealing with matters of air pollution. Absolute non-compliance. Check our last order and June 10 order as well. Not a single prosecution has been done yet. Everything is just on paper” the court said.

Delhi and the surrounding region have been engulfed in an annual spectre of air pollution which worsens during Diwali every year and extends well into the winter.

When the Haryana Chief Secretary submitted 17 FIRs registered this year, Justice Oka pointed out that the cases were not under the required provisions and warned that the court would issue contempt proceedings if action was not taken within one week.

“We are telling you very clearly. We will give you one week and if not complied, we will issue contempt against Chief Secretary. Why are you shy of prosecuting people?,” the top court asked.

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The apex court has asked both the states to file affidavits disclosing steps taken to comply with CAQM orders. The court taking up the affidavit noted that the state has not prosecuted people for subtle burning.

The Supreme Court which hears annually matters related to air quality in Delhi has said that nothing is being done to address the issue. He called it a harsh reality as nothing but discussion has been done on the matter.