The Delhi High Court criticised the government for scheduling outdoor sports during peak pollution months, warning that “school students cannot be called for damage to lungs.”
The Court has sought a reply within four weeks and asked the government to reschedule sports events from next year.
The Supreme Court is deliberating on mandating colour-coded stickers for vehicles to improve air quality monitoring and compliance. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan questioned the implementation of stringent GRAP-4 (Graded Response Action Plan) measures amid worsening AQI levels in Delhi. The court is examining how such measures can curb pollution effectively. Rising air pollution remains a critical concern for the capital city.
![[BREAKING] "We Instructed Judges to Allow Virtual Hearings”: CJI Sanjiv Khanna Permits Online Appearances Amid Delhi Air Pollution](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Screenshot-2024-11-11-104311.png?resize=447%2C300&ssl=1)
Today, On 19th November, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has permitted online attendance for lawyers and encouraged virtual court hearings due to deteriorating air quality in Delhi. This adaptive measure aims to safeguard health amid escalating pollution levels. The Supreme Court also mandated the suspension of in-person classes for grades up to 12 in response to the crisis.
Advocate Gopal Sankarnarayanan raised concerns about construction activities within the Supreme Court premises during a hearing on air pollution in Delhi. The court criticized the Delhi government for failing to enforce construction bans. Delhi’s air quality reached severe levels, prompting emergency measures, including school closures and construction pauses, to address the crisis.
Today, On 18th November, the Supreme Court mandated the continuation of Stage 4 anti-pollution measures in Delhi under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP IV) due to severe air quality. The court criticized the central air quality commission for delays and indicated it would not lower the measures even if the air quality improves.
On Monday(18th Nov), the Supreme Court heard a plea seeking the enforcement of measures to curb air pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih expressed serious concerns over delays in implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Justice Oka questioned the Delhi counsel, stating, “Why was the GRAP mechanism not invoked? How can you risk delaying such critical measures?” In response to the counsel’s clarification that stage 4 of GRAP was now in effect, the bench emphasized that the Delhi government must not lower it without court approval, even if the Air Quality Index (AQI) improves below 300. The bench remarked, “We are making it clear that you will not go below stage 4 without our permission.”
Today, On 18th November, the Supreme Court will hear a case about Delhi’s severe pollution levels, questioning why the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) failed to implement necessary measures. The court emphasized the right to a pollution-free environment and criticized authorities for inaction amid worsening air quality, highlighting concerns over environmental health.
Today, On 4th November, the Supreme Court reprimanded the Delhi government and police for ineffective enforcement of the firecracker ban amid deteriorating air quality following Diwali. The court demanded immediate details on implemented measures and future plans, highlighting the need for stringent action to address pollution and ensure public safety during festivals.
![[Stubble Burning] "We Will Take Union of India To Task": SC Blasts Centre As Delhi Air Quality Worsens](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/image-98.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Highlighting the widespread issue of stubble burning in neighboring states, which has contributed to pollution in Delhi, the Supreme Court criticized the Centre Today (Oct 23) for weakening the Environmental Protection Act through amendments. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Centre, assured the court that the necessary rules would be finalized within 10 days, and the Act would be fully enforced.
Today, On 24th September, the Supreme Court of India expressed concern over stubble burning’s role in air pollution during a hearing focused on Delhi’s air quality. The Court demanded explanations from the Commission for Air Quality Management regarding enforcement actions against violators and reiterated the necessity of stopping stubble burning to improve air quality.