Politics of pollution in Deepawali at the Cost of Human killing

 

The query appears to refer to the political controversies surrounding air pollution during Diwali (the Hindu festival of lights) in India, particularly how it contributes to health risks and deaths ("killing man," likely meaning fatalities linked to pollution). Diwali, celebrated with fireworks, often exacerbates air quality issues in cities like Delhi, sparking debates over bans, enforcement, and blame attribution. Below, I'll outline the key aspects based on recent events as of October 21, 2025.

The Pollution Spike during Diwali

Diwali fireworks release particulate matter (PM2.5), sulfur dioxide, and other pollutants, leading to a sharp rise in air quality index (AQI) levels. In 2025, despite court orders allowing only "green" (less-polluting) crackers, Delhi's AQI reached "severe" or "hazardous" levels post-Diwali, with readings up to 350-400 in many areas. This was worse than in recent years, even with partial bans ignored by many residents. Contributing factors include not just fireworks but also crop stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution.

Personal exposure to PM2.5 during Diwali can be extremely high, as shown in studies where levels spike dramatically during the festival. Visuals from 2025 show thick smog blanketing the city, reducing visibility and prompting health warnings.

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Political Controversies and Blame Games

Pollution during Diwali has become highly politicized in India, especially in Delhi, where parties accuse each other of inaction or cultural bias. Key points from various stakeholders:

• AAP (Aam Aadmi Party) Perspective: The former ruling party in Delhi (until recent shifts) has pushed for strict firecracker bans, arguing they worsen winter smog. In 2025, AAP leaders mocked the current government's promises of "artificial rain" to combat pollution, claiming no action was taken post-Diwali. They often blame stubble burning in BJP-ruled states like Haryana for the bulk of the problem, positioning themselves as environmental champions.
• BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) Counter: BJP leaders, including Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, accused AAP of "defaming Diwali" by linking pollution solely to Hindu festivals, calling it appeasement politics. They argue that AAP failed to address the issue during their decade in power and that 2025's AQI was lower than previous peaks, downplaying fireworks' role. Some BJP supporters frame bans as anti-Hindu, comparing them to leniency on other festivals like Eid or Christmas.
• Court and Government Interventions: India's Supreme Court modified bans in 2025 to allow "green crackers," seen as a compromise amid cultural sensitivities. However, enforcement is weak, with critics saying politics hinders real solutions like better public transport or stubble management tech. Environmental groups and media highlight how partisan blame-shifting (e.g., "political smog") delays systemic fixes.
• Broader Views: Some commentators, including Gandhi's historical calls against wasteful fireworks, argue Diwali pollution reflects urban excess and cultural insensitivity to health. Others defend fireworks as economic and spiritual boosters, accusing "left ecosystems" of targeting Hindu traditions while ignoring year-round pollution sources.

These debates often intensify on social media, with hashtags like #DelhiPollution and #SaveDiwali reflecting divided opinions.

Link to Deaths and Health Impacts

Air pollution in India, amplified by events like Diwali, is a major killer. A 2024 Lancet study (covering 2009-2019) estimated 3.8 million deaths nationwide linked to air pollution, including respiratory diseases, heart issues, and premature mortality. In Delhi, post-Diwali spikes can push AQI to levels 56 times WHO safe limits, worsening conditions for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. While direct "Diwali deaths" from fireworks accidents occur (e.g., burns or explosions), the indirect toll from pollution is far higher, contributing to India's annual 1-2 million pollution-related fatalities overall. Politics plays a role here too, as delayed policies mean these deaths continue amid finger-pointing rather than solutions.

In summary, Diwali pollution is a flashpoint where cultural celebration clashes with environmental and health realities, fueled by partisan politics that often prioritize votes over clean air.

Source : Grok