Rahul Gandhi Criticises Government Over Air Pollution Crisis

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has issued a strong critique of the central government regarding the worsening air quality in India. The politician has expressed concern that parents across the nation are increasingly fearful for their children's health as pollution levels persist in the hazardous range in various cities.

In a pointed social media statement, Gandhi noted that 'every mother' he meets conveys the same anxiety that her child is 'growing up breathing toxic air.' He described families as 'exhausted, scared and angry' due to the escalating air pollution, which shows no signs of improvement year after year, and has gone unaddressed by the government.

Labeling the situation as a 'health emergency', the Congress Member of Parliament (MP) accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of remaining silent while children in India are suffering from the effects of poor air quality. Gandhi raised questions regarding the government's lack of a decisive response, stating there is 'no plan, no accountability' from those in authority.

He has called on the government to organise an immediate and comprehensive debate in Parliament about air pollution, urging for a stringent, enforceable national action plan to effectively combat the crisis. He emphasised that this issue can no longer be met with 'excuses and distractions', asserting that clean air is a fundamental right for every child.

In his statement on the social media platform X, Gandhi remarked, 'Every mother I meet tells me the same thing: her child is growing up breathing toxic air. They are exhausted, scared and angry. Modi ji, India’s children are choking in front of us. How can you stay silent? Why does your government show no urgency, no plan, no accountability? India needs an immediate, detailed Parliament debate on air pollution and a strict, enforceable action plan to tackle this health emergency. Our children deserve clean air - not excuses and distractions.' He also shared an eight-minute video of his discussions with several mothers.

Gandhi's comments come at a critical time, as air quality indices across northern India, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR), have frequently fallen into the severe category. This trend has raised significant health warnings and heightened concern among parents regarding the safety and well-being of their children.

The deteriorating air quality has prompted various public health experts to issue warnings about the long-term effects of pollution on children's health, especially for those with pre-existing conditions. As the debate continues, the pressing issue of air pollution in India remains a focal point of concern for both citizens and policymakers alike.