'Even if pollution increased on Diwali, it would eventually subside': UP CM Yogi
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended the use of firecrackers during Diwali despite record-breaking air pollution levels in North India. He argued that pollution from festivals is temporary and questioned why the public is blamed while systemic corruption is ignored.
Why it matters
The comments highlight the tension between cultural traditions and public health concerns regarding air quality in India.
NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday defended Diwali celebrations involving firecrackers amid concerns over worsening air pollution. The Uttar Pradesh CM said that even if pollution levels increased during the festival, they would eventually subside.Addressing an event, Adityanath questioned why pollution became a major concern when people celebrated festivals, while those responsible for allegedly corrupting the system were not held accountable. He also defended the use of firecrackers, saying his government had not imposed restrictions on them during Diwali."You celebrated Diwali as well, but many people complained that it caused pollution. I said that even if pollution increased, it would eventually subside, so why worry?" the chief minister said."Nobody questions those who polluted the entire system through their corrupt practices.
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