SC raps Commission for Air Quality Management over stubble burning, pollution; asks to submit compliance report

The Supreme Court of India criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its inadequate response to air pollution in Delhi, particularly from crop residue burning in neighboring states. Justices Abha S Oka and Augustine George Masih expressed their disappointment with the CAQM’s lack of action under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021.

The court highlighted a “total non-compliance of the Act” and requested evidence of any directives issued to stakeholders. "We are of the view that though the commission has taken steps, it needs to be more active," the bench remarked. They emphasized that the commission's efforts should lead to tangible reductions in pollution levels.

The court called for immediate action to ensure that stubble-burning alternative equipment provided by the Central government is utilized effectively by farmers. It also directed the CAQM to present a more detailed compliance report at the next hearing scheduled for October 3.


During the proceedings, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati outlined the government's measures, such as issuing advisories to control stubble burning. However, the Supreme Court noted, "It is all in the air; nothing has been shown regarding what has been done in the National Capital Region (NCR) states."

Rajesh Verma, the CAQM chairman, informed the court of his discussions with deputy commissioners from Punjab and Haryana, areas significantly affected by stubble burning. Previously, on September 24, the Supreme Court had sought clarity on the steps taken by the CAQM to address pollution from crop residue burning, which typically worsens during the winter months.

The court has previously characterized the pollution control boards in Delhi and NCR as "ineffective" due to staffing issues. It expressed concerns over the CAQM's sub-committee on safeguarding and enforcement, questioning how it would operate with ongoing vacancies among the pollution control boards in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

The Supreme Court has directed these five states to urgently fill vacant positions, ideally by April 30, 2025. The CAQM chairperson has been instructed to file an affidavit detailing the proposed measures to tackle the persistent air pollution, often linked to the burning of paddy straw in surrounding states.

(With inputs from PTI)