The Supreme Court has announced that all Stage 4 emergency measures to deal with Delhi's hazardous air quality will continue until at least Monday, with a review scheduled for December 2. In related news, an explosion near a theatre and an attack on Enforcement Directorate officials in Bijwasan serve as an alarming reminder of the severe consequences of the city's pollution crisis. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has issued notices on a PIL seeking the implementation of Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana in the national capital.
Delhi's Air Quality Crisis: Supreme Court Extends Emergency Measures
In response to Delhi's persistent hazardous air quality, the Supreme Court has mandated that Stage 4 emergency measures remain in place until at least Monday, December 2. The court will review the situation on that date.
Background:
Delhi has been grappling with severe air pollution for years, primarily due to vehicle emissions, construction activities, and industrial pollution. The problem is exacerbated during winter months due to meteorological conditions that trap pollutants near the ground.
In the past, the city has implemented various measures to combat air pollution, including the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme, but these have had limited success.
Current Measures:
The Stage 4 emergency measures currently in place include:
Recent Events:
In addition to the air quality crisis, Delhi has recently witnessed two alarming incidents:
FAQs:
Q1: Why are Stage 4 emergency measures being implemented? A1: The measures are necessary to reduce air pollution levels that have reached hazardous levels and pose a significant health risk to residents.
Q2: How long will the measures remain in place? A2: The measures will remain in place until at least December 2, when the Supreme Court will review the situation.
Q3: What are the consequences of Delhi's air pollution crisis? A3: Air pollution in Delhi has been linked to an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as premature deaths. The crisis also has economic implications, such as reduced productivity and tourism.
Q4: What is the government doing to address air pollution in Delhi? A4: The government has implemented various measures, including the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme, restrictions on construction activities, and promotion of public transportation.
Q5: What can individuals do to help improve air quality in Delhi? A5: Individuals can reduce their carbon footprint by opting for public transportation, walking, or cycling. They can also conserve energy at home and reduce the use of personal vehicles.
An explosion near a popular movie theater in Delhi's Prashant Vihar area has left citizens in a state of panic. A man driving a three-wheeler near the site sustained minor injuries. Security forces, including NSG commandos and Delhi Police, are currently investigating the incident. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has accused the central government of failing to maintain law and order. This is the second blast in the area in the past month, but officials have not established a connection between the two events.
Marking a significant step in her political journey, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took her oath of affirmation as a member of the Lok Sabha, joining mother Sonia Gandhi and brother Rahul Gandhi in Parliament. Her resounding victory in the Wayanad bypoll cements the Nehru-Gandhi family's presence in the Parliament, with three members present for the first time. Despite falling slightly short of her brother's victory margin, Priyanka Gandhi's dynamic campaign and focus on grassroots issues highlight her growing influence within the Congress party.
The Australian Senate has passed a landmark legislation that will make it illegal for children under 16 to create social media accounts on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Snapchat. The government has agreed to pass the bill, despite concerns from critics that the ban may harm vulnerable children who rely on social media for support. The bill also includes privacy protections to prevent platforms from requiring government-issued identification or digital identification through government systems. While the House of Representatives still needs to approve amendments made in the Senate, the ban is expected to be enforced within a year, with hefty fines for platforms that fail to comply.
A heated protest in Islamabad over the release of politician Imran Khan led to the postponement of the final two cricket matches between Pakistan Shaheens and Sri Lanka A. The clash between Pakistani authorities and demonstrators resulted in 6 deaths and almost 1,000 arrests. The Interior Ministry has invoked Article 245 to maintain peace and the police chief claims that no live ammunition was used, but weapons were seized from the protest site.
As Indian Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna addressed the Constitutional Day celebrations at the Supreme Court, he emphasized the role of constructive feedback in identifying and eliminating systematic inefficiencies and bottlenecks in the judiciary. He also responded to criticisms of the judiciary's power in a democracy, underlining the Constitution's design to ensure unbiased and pressure-free decisions. The CJI also discussed the relationship between the judiciary and other branches of government, stressing the balance of interdependence, autonomy, and reciprocity. Despite the challenges faced by judges, he described their role as a "bridge" that nurtures the Constitution, fundamental rights, and governance.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, daughter of Sonia and Rajiv Gandhi, has been sworn in as an MP in the Lok Sabha, following in the footsteps of other members of the Nehru-Gandhi family. She won a landslide victory in the Wayanad by-election, which was necessitated by her brother Rahul Gandhi's resignation. Priyanka Gandhi's entry into Parliament marks a new phase in her political career, which previously focused on supporting her mother in Rae Bareli constituency. She is the third of her generation to become an MP and the eighth female member of the Nehru-Gandhi clan.
JMM leader Hemant Soren took oath as the new chief minister of Jharkhand in a grand ceremony, in the presence of top Indian political leaders. The 49-year-old tribal leader was sworn in by the state's governor, Santosh Kumar Gangwar. Prior to the ceremony, Soren met with his father and JMM president, Shibu Soren.
A low intensity explosion was heard on Thursday near a PVR in Prashant Vihar area of Delhi’s Rohini region. The Delhi Fire Service received the call regarding the blast at 11.48 am, as reported by PTI. No injuries or casualties have been reported and the investigation is currently underway.
The Bangladesh High Court has rejected a plea to ban the activities of ISKCON in Bangladesh, stating that the government has taken appropriate actions to address concerns. This decision comes after three separate cases have been filed in connection with ISKCON's activities and the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif, with 33 accused arrested. The court emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety and upholding law and order, relying on reports from the additional attorney general and deputy attorney general.