Punjab Minister Balbir Singh has highlighted the detrimental impact of stubble burning, emphasizing that farmers are the primary victims of the practice. Speaking on Tuesday, Singh addressed concerns for both farmers and citizens in Punjab affected by the air pollution caused by burning crop residue.
"We all have to breathe the same air," Singh stated. "Whether or not (air) pollution goes to Delhi is a matter of debate. But the farmer who is burning stubble is the first one to get affected." He stressed the immediate and direct health consequences faced by farmers who engage in stubble burning.
Beyond the environmental concerns, Minister Singh also addressed the Punjab government's commitment to upholding the rule of law, referencing Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's decision to prosecute Dera chief Ram Rahim Singh in a 2015 blasphemy case. "Punjab government has restored the rule of law and the law will take its course," he affirmed.
Furthermore, Singh underscored the need for the Union government's support regarding paddy procurement and lifting, particularly concerning grain weight loss due to moisture. He reiterated the Punjab government's dedication to protecting farmers' interests. "It is the time when the Union government should stand with the farmers. The negligence is from the Union Govt's side. The Punjab government is committed to farmers," he said, adding that the CM has raised these issues with the Union Agriculture Minister.
His statement comes amidst ongoing debates about the causes of air pollution in Delhi, with the Delhi government previously blaming Uttar Pradesh and Haryana for failing to control stubble burning. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi Marlena noted that Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) was worsening due to uncontrolled stubble burning in neighboring states.
