Overview

• The Supreme Court has reprimanded the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for not enforcing its own orders to curb stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana.
• Despite CAQM's authority to impose severe penalties, no prosecutions have been initiated against violators, contributing to Delhi's worsening air pollution.
• The court emphasized the necessity of criminal prosecution to deter farmers and officials from ignoring stubble-burning regulations.
• CAQM's report revealed 129 stubble-burning incidents between September 15 and 30, yet the commission has primarily focused on meetings rather than actionable enforcement.
• The court has called for immediate reports from Punjab and Haryana on their compliance with CAQM orders, threatening to use its powers under Article 142 if necessary.