Stubble burning: SC to get tough

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- FPJ News Service

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that farmers who continue to violate stubble burning directives may face strict action, including arrest, to curb the rising air pollution in Delhi-NCR.

Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai, sitting with Justice K Vinod Chandran, observed that while farmers are important to the country, it does not mean that they can continue unchecked with practices that harm the environment. “If some people are behind bars, it will send the correct message. Not as a routine but to send a message,” the CJI remarked.

The Court was hearing suo motu proceedings related to the failure of NCR states to comply with directives to complete recruitment to their Pollution Control Boards and Committees.

The bench stressed that the Union government must consider penal provisions against agriculturists engaging in stubble burning, warning that the Court may issue a mandamus if the State is reluctant.