Parliament Concludes Winter Session, Drops Critical Air Pollution Debate Amid Ruckus

The winter session of Parliament has concluded, with a significant debate on Delhis escalating air pollution crisis remaining undiscussed. Despite a prior agreement from Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju for a structured discussion and calls from leaders like Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi, who termed it a national health emergency, the crucial agenda item was ultimately dropped.

The air pollution debate, listed as item number 26, did not proceed. This occurred after considerable time was allocated to other legislative matters, including lengthy debates on bills such as Vande Mataram, which lasted nearly 24 hours, and election reforms.

A ruckus during the discussion on the G Ramji bill and the subsequent adjournment of the house after a government bill was passed prevented the pollution debate from being taken up.

The failure to address Delhis severe air quality, often likened to a "gas chamber" and known to cause serious health issues including respiratory problems, cancer, and harm to children, has drawn criticism. Observers note that both the government and the opposition appear equally negligent in prioritising this urgent public health concern.