Supreme Court Questions Lack of Arrests for Stubble Burning Violations

Supreme Court’s Stern Queries

In one of the major developments related to the long running problem of air pollution, the Supreme Court of India has also cast a strong doubt on the absence of arrests of stubble burning offences. The harsh interrogation of the court occurred in the hearing on the issue as the court pointed out the differing nature of the crime and the lightness of the law action taken. The bench was revealed to be frustrated in that the farmers are punished by way of fines yet no one appears to be criminally liable, of an act that negatively affects the health of the population. The court intervention is an indication of a possible change towards a tougher enforcement and responsibility of this environmental crime.

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The Gravity of the Offense

Stubble burning is a common farming method in such states as Punjab and Haryana wherein after harvesting farmers burn the stubble. This is the most common technique of clearing fields in a short time and ensuring that they are ready to be planted once more. But this is a significant cause of the extreme air pollution which suffocates the north of India especially Delhi every winter. The emission of these fires has great contents of particulate matter and other pollutants, which may lead to or exacerbate respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and other health problems. Although it is illegal, the act is being perpetuated and the Supreme Court is now asking why no arrests have been done.

A Disconnect in Enforcement

The main issue that is being raised by the Supreme Court is the seemingly inseparable nature of policy and its execution. The court noted that fines are given to farmers, but the legal apparatus in general does not appear to be eager to be more decisive. The judges indicated that the act of bringing about such a large scale pollution and health risks cannot be handled as a fine or a normal crime. The question raised by the court was why, even with the evident and apparent breach of laws, law enforcers have not really been arresting anyone, which would be a more potent deterrent. This absence of punitive measure in the eyes of the court is playing part in increasing the menace.

The Role of State Governments

The examination of the court also targets the state governments of the affected areas. It has challenged their policy on how they handle stubble burning indicating that the present system of imposing fines is not effective. The comments of the court suggest that the state administrations have to raise their game and be more rigid in enforcing the law. The judiciary are of the opinion that a more stringent approach is required, to make farmers and officials seek and adopt more sustainable solutions to the stubble burning.

A Call for Greater Accountability

The questions posed by the Supreme Court are a strong appeal to all stakeholders, the farmers, the State governments, and the law enforcement to be more responsible. This is the position of the court that the right to clean air is a basic right of all citizens and the right is being violated through the uncontrolled burning of stubble. The court is not only relating to one issue when it requires answers as to why no arrests are taken but is also sending a clear signal to the judiciary in terms of its obligation to enforce environmental legislation and safeguard human health. This would mark a shift in combating a long time environmental issue.