Congress leader Anurag Dhanda launched a strong attack on the BJP-led governments over worsening air pollution levels, calling the situation “smoke-filled governance” and accusing the ruling party of complete failure in tackling the pollution crisis.
Using the hashtag #NOTAForAQI, Dhanda said that deteriorating air quality across several states reflects not just environmental stress but a serious lack of political intent. He argued that pollution has reached alarming levels despite repeated warnings, court directives and public health concerns.
Anurag Dhanda: ‘Pollution Is a Governance Failure’
Dhanda said air pollution is no longer a seasonal or technical issue but a direct outcome of policy paralysis. “This is not about nature alone; it is about governance. When political will is missing, pollution becomes permanent,” he said, adding that citizens are being forced to breathe hazardous air without accountability.
Debate Sparks National Outrage
The remarks came amid a heated national debate on air quality, highlighted during a live television discussion titled “Lack of Political Will to Curb Pollution?”. The issue has once again brought focus on government preparedness, coordination between states and enforcement of pollution-control measures.
Call for Accountability and Action
Anurag Dhanda questioned the BJP’s environmental claims, stating that slogans and announcements have failed to translate into effective ground-level action. He demanded a transparent roadmap with time-bound targets, stricter implementation of pollution norms and a public health-first approach.
He further said that citizens, especially children and the elderly, are paying the price of administrative inaction. “Clean air is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right,” Dhanda asserted.
Growing Public Anger
With air quality levels remaining in the severe category in many regions, public frustration is mounting. Dhanda said that rising pollution could become a major public issue, urging voters to hold governments accountable for environmental neglect.
