LAGATAR24 DESK
New Delhi: Former Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal’s recent appeal to avoid crackers this Diwali and instead light diyas has sparked criticism from the BJP, who argue the policy disregards people’s festive sentiments. Kejriwal’s call aligns with AAP’s complete firecracker ban, effective until January 1, 2025, aimed at combating severe air pollution in the capital.
Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal emphasized that “Diwali is a festival of lights, not crackers” and cited court directives encouraging the lighting of diyas rather than bursting crackers amidst Delhi’s deteriorating air quality. He stressed that the pollution impacts all lives equally, particularly children, saying, “There is no Hindu-Muslim in this; everyone’s life matters.”
Responding to Kejriwal’s stance, BJP MP Manoj Tiwari criticized the AAP government, saying, “Kejriwal is playing with the sentiments of Delhi’s people. If BJP takes office in Delhi, we will address pollution and lift the cracker ban.” He further argued that the focus should be on year-round pollution management rather than imposing festival-specific bans. Tiwari suggested using green crackers, noting their reduced environmental impact.
Delhi’s Air Quality Worsens Ahead of Diwali
Delhi’s air quality, recorded at an AQI of 278 on Wednesday, falls in the “poor” category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, eight monitoring stations reported “very poor” AQI, with the situation exacerbated by unseasonably warm temperatures. The city’s minimum temperature recorded at 21°C is nearly five degrees above average for this time of year.
