India's Top Court: Clean Air is a Right, Not a Privilege

India's Supreme Court has made a bold statement, declaring that living in a pollution-free environment is a fundamental right for all citizens. This comes as Delhi, the capital, is choking under a thick layer of smog. The city's air quality index hit a "very poor" 364 on Wednesday, with levels below 50 considered good. Delhi isn't alone; the Swiss group IQAir ranked it the most polluted city in the world. The main culprit? Farmers burning paddy stubble in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana. The court criticized these states for not enforcing laws against this practice effectively. They emphasized that this isn't just about following rules, but about protecting citizens' right to live with dignity. The court asked the federal government to look into Punjab's proposal for extra funds to help farmers with small land holdings. The proposal aims to provide them with tractors and diesel to avoid stubble burning. Delhi's air quality worsens every winter as temperatures drop. The cold, heavy air traps vehicle emissions, construction dust, and smoke, creating a toxic blanket over the city. The Supreme Court has taken up this issue before, but experts say their directives haven't been properly followed. To ensure action, the court directed the federal government and state governments to submit compliance reports. Air pollution doesn't just affect India; it disrupts lives across South Asia. In Pakistan's Punjab province, schools have changed timings and outdoor activities are suspended due to smog. IQAir rated Lahore, the provincial capital, the world's second most polluted city. "All these steps are being taken to protect children from smog, " said Marriyam Aurangzeb, a senior minister in Pakistan's Punjab.