New Delhi, Nov 28: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday raised alarm over Delhi’s worsening air quality, urging Parliament to hold a detailed discussion on the issue and questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence on what he termed a “health emergency.”
Gandhi demanded a strict and enforceable action plan to curb air pollution, pressing the Modi government to act with urgency and accountability.
Sharing a video of his discussion with concerned mothers at his residence, Gandhi said, “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?”
He added, “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.”
Delhi has faced very poor air quality for the past 15 days, with forecasts from the Air Quality Early Warning System predicting that conditions will remain in the ‘very poor’ category over the coming week.
Medical experts have warned of the severe health risks posed by toxic air, including airway inflammation, reduced lung function, and aggravated respiratory and cardiac conditions. Doctors stressed the importance of regular diagnostic screenings, particularly for children, asthma patients, smokers, and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions.