The NHRC calls for accountability from those in charge of slowing down stubble burning

In an effort to reduce air pollution, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed grave concerns about the slow progress being made. During a recent video conference follow-up hearing on Delhi’s air pollution, NHRC Chairperson Justice (Retd) Arun Kumar Mishra highlighted the need to assign responsibility from top to bottom. Based on news stories from the previous year, the NHRC started its investigation.

The seriousness of the problem was highlighted by Mishra, who said, “We have to rise to the occasion as millions are choking due to air pollution, and we cannot allow it to persist indefinitely.” According to PTI, he recognized the difficulties encountered by impoverished farmers and argued that they shouldn’t be held solely responsible for stubble burning since some of them lack the funds to purchase gear for prompt clearance of stubble between crop cycles.

Mishra suggested that authorities reserve machinery for farmers who cannot afford pricey equipment, in addition to providing subsidies. According to him, “Providing subsidies for the machines cannot be a solution for all.” he advocated against simply depending on subsidies.

The NHRC also discussed how time-consuming in-situ agricultural waste treatment is, expressing worry that farmers may find it difficult to put off planting for the next season. The Commission has requested daily “status reports” on affidavits pertaining to equipment delivered to farmers in the next 15 days from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. The governments are also required to submit updates on the equipment reserved in each area for farmers with limited resources.