Supreme Court declares pollution-free environment a fundamental right as air quality worsens in northern India
Summary: India's Supreme Court declared on Wednesday that living in a pollution-free environment is a fundamental right. This statement comes as air quality in northern India, particularly Delhi, worsens, with the city recording a "very poor" air quality index of 364.
The court criticized the governments of Punjab and Haryana for not effectively enforcing laws against illegal paddy stubble burning, which contributes significantly to air pollution. It directed the federal government to consider a funding proposal from Punjab to assist small farmers.
The Supreme Court has previously addressed air quality issues but noted that its directives have often gone unimplemented. It has now ordered compliance reports from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to ensure action is taken.
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