The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) criticized the BJP-led government in Delhi, alleging that it has neglected public health and indirectly favored private hospitals during the city’s post-Diwali pollution crisis. The party shared a video on social media, accusing the BJP of jeopardizing people’s lives by failing to address the escalating pollution levels, which have led to a health emergency. AAP claimed that the deteriorating air quality has pushed residents to rely on private hospitals due to the poor state of government healthcare facilities.
Moreover, AAP accused the government of not taking necessary preventive actions, such as artificial rain, to safeguard the lives of Delhi residents. They emphasized that the pollution crisis has once again highlighted the reliance on private hospitals, which ultimately benefits them financially. The party condemned the BJP for allegedly prioritizing profit over the well-being of the people in Delhi.
The criticism from AAP comes after Delhi experienced its worst post-Diwali air quality in four years, with PM2.5 levels peaking at 675 micrograms per cubic meter. The city was engulfed in a dense haze, and the Air Quality Index (AQI) entered the “red zone” following the Diwali celebrations, where firecrackers were reportedly set off beyond the permitted time limits.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI on Diwali was 345, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. Despite claims that green firecrackers were used, the AQI rose to 356 the morning after Diwali. The Environment Minister attributed the spike to various factors, including the tradition of using firecrackers during festivals.
AAP leaders called for immediate action and criticized the government for its alleged inaction in combating pollution. They raised concerns about the lack of transparency in AQI data on Diwali night and questioned the authorities’ collaboration with firecracker manufacturers.
In response, the BJP attributed the pollution to stubble burning in Punjab, shifting the blame to the neighboring state. The AAP-run Punjab government was accused of encouraging farmers to burn excessive amounts of paddy stubble. Additionally, the BJP criticized those who violated the time restrictions on firecracker usage, highlighting their irresponsible behavior.
Meanwhile, the Congress highlighted years of administrative neglect as a contributing factor to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi and called for sustained efforts to address pollution. Despite restrictions, firecracker sales surged during Diwali, resulting in a significant increase in revenue for vendors. Hospitals reported a rise in burn cases, with Safdarjung Hospital handling the highest number of cases. The Delhi Fire Services also received a notable number of emergency calls on Diwali night, although there was a slight decrease compared to the previous year.