"Schemes Like Odd-Even Mere Optics": Supreme Court On Delhi Air Pollution

Against the backdrop of political differences and their role in blocking a proper resolution to the problem, the court said, "This can't become a political battle. It's a murder of people's health."

Directing state governments to take immediate steps to stop stubble burning, the court said, "We want it stopped. We don't know how you do it, it's your job. But it must be stopped. Something has to be done immediately."

The court also pulled up Delhi government. "Delhi government also must be responsible. There are many buses running that pollute and run at half capacity. You have to attend to the problem," it said.

The court also commented on the odd-even scheme announced by Delhi government to check the pollution levels. Schemes like odd-even for vehicles to tackle pollution issue are "mere optics", the court said.

The court also asked if paddy cultivation can be stopped in Punjab. "The crop is destroying the water table of the state," it said.