Delhi Pollution Crisis Deepens As Kejriwal Blames BJP Over Rising AQI Levels

Delhi[India] December 18: Delhi pollution has again become the centre of national attention. Arvind Kejriwal openly blamed the BJP led governments. He blamed them for turning the capital into what he called a gas chamber. His remarks came after BJP leaders accused AAP of increasing pollution on purpose. The exchange shows how air quality has moved from an environment issue to a political battleground. Residents continue to breathe poor air while leaders argue over responsibility. Delhi has faced pollution problems for years, but the anger this season feels sharper. The AQI levels have crossed dangerous limits. Public patience is thinning along with clean air.

Kejriwal Rejects Blame Linked to Punjab Stubble Burning

Arvind Kejriwal questioned the long standing claim. It was that Punjab stubble burning causes Delhi pollution. He pointed out that AQI levels in cities of Punjab is staying between 70 and 100. These numbers fall in the safe range. According to him, this proves that Delhi pollution is home grown. He spoke during a press briefing in Punjab alongside Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Kejriwal said earlier AAP governments never saw such severe AQI readings. Delhi has a long history of winter smog, but blaming neighbouring states has become routine. This time, Kejriwal challenged that narrative directly.

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Claims of AQI Data Tampering Raise Fresh Questions

Kejriwal alleged that pollution control efforts were replaced with data manipulation. He claimed water was being sprayed near AQI monitoring stations. Despite this, AQI numbers still crossed 400 in many areas. He said real pollution levels could be far worse. Central Pollution Control Board data showed AQI moving from very poor to severe within days. Delhi pollution monitoring has always faced trust issues. Past debates also raised doubts about data accuracy. These fresh claims have added fuel to public concern. People want clean air, not adjusted numbers on screens.

Delay in GRAP Measures Draws Strong Criticism

The AAP leader accused the Delhi government of delaying GRAP Stage IV rules. These measures include stopping construction and limiting vehicles. He said GRAP existed only on paper for many days. Construction activity continued across the city. GRAP was finally enforced after AQI reached the severe category. Delhi has followed GRAP since 2017, introduced after Supreme Court directions. Its goal was quick response to pollution spikes. Kejriwal argued that slow action worsened the crisis. When rules come late, damage is already done.

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BJP Counters With Waste Burning Allegations

The BJP hit back strongly by accusing AAP leaders of burning waste to raise AQI. Delhi environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said such acts were dirty politics. He claimed an AAP councillor was caught lighting garbage fires. These allegations added another layer to the political fight. Meanwhile, Kejriwal also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He blamed him for staying silent on Delhi pollution. He said leadership silence sends the wrong message. Delhi has battled pollution since rapid urban growth began decades ago. The city now waits for action, not accusations.