Even before Diwali, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was anxious about rising pollution levels in Delhi. In an effort to curb the pollution that typically spikes during the festive season, the Delhi government initiated a campaign to discourage firecracker use. AAP leader Gopal Rai wrote to the Lieutenant Governor (LG), urging a ban on firecrackers in the city. The Delhi Police and administration, being under the jurisdiction of the Central Government, were responsible for enforcement, which added to the complexity of AAP’s efforts to ensure compliance.
Despite the appeals from the government, this year, many Delhi residents continued to set off firecrackers during Diwali, resulting in increased air pollution. This reaction seemed to demonstrate public dissent toward the government’s request, creating further tension for Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and AAP, as opposition parties, BJP and Congress, began using the pollution issue as a political talking point in the upcoming elections.
Public Sentiment and Kejriwal’s Concerns
This Diwali, people across Delhi defied the ban, celebrating with firecrackers despite the government’s appeals. Some residents even voiced that this act of resistance was symbolic, showing that Kejriwal’s directives held less influence over them. This response has left Kejriwal worried, as BJP and Congress may capitalize on this sentiment to question his administration’s effectiveness and possibly undermine AAP’s credibility ahead of elections.
Kejriwal, known for his efforts and promises of reform, is now facing a challenge as his own appeals seem to be falling flat with the public. This response has not only diminished his influence but also exposed a public perception gap regarding AAP’s actions and intentions. The question that arises is why Kejriwal has shown such restlessness post-Diwali, given the extensive celebration with firecrackers that seemed to contradict the government’s environmental appeals.
Impact of Delhi’s Pollution Problem
Delhi’s air quality worsens every winter due to a variety of pollution sources, including emissions from vehicles, industrial activities, dust, and crop stubble burning from nearby states like Punjab. Although firecrackers are a small but significant contributor to this pollution, it exacerbates the problem in the densely populated region. PM2.5, a harmful particulate matter, poses serious health risks, especially affecting children, seniors, and those with preexisting respiratory issues. Health experts cite risks of heart disease, respiratory problems, and even impacts on brain development in children. For older adults, long-term exposure to polluted air can lead to cognitive decline and dementia. Beyond health, pollution has social and economic implications, affecting productivity, increasing healthcare costs, and damaging crops.
Political and Social Implications for AAP
The continuous rise in pollution and public defiance over firecrackers during Diwali may have a lasting political impact. Kejriwal’s administration has often promoted eco-friendly initiatives, yet the effectiveness of these measures is now in question. As BJP and Congress seize this opportunity to criticize AAP’s approach to pollution control, they are likely to make it a major campaign issue. Furthermore, the AAP government in Punjab has allowed farmers there to burn stubble, adding to the problem that plagues Delhi each winter. This seeming contradiction has fueled criticism that AAP’s approach lacks consistency.
Despite its efforts to curb pollution, AAP is facing strong public opposition and increased scrutiny from political rivals. The Delhi government’s struggle to control pollution, combined with mounting criticism over ineffective bans and apparent double standards, has left Kejriwal and his party in a precarious position. As pollution remains a key concern for Delhi residents, AAP’s handling of the issue could be pivotal in the upcoming elections.