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Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday questioned the BJP-led Central government for what he described as a false narrative blaming Punjab for Delhi’s severe air pollution, asserting that there has been no paddy stubble burning in the state in recent days. Quoting official air quality data, Mann told mediapersons that while Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in Punjab cities range between 70 and 110, Delhi’s AQI stood at 427 on Monday, falling in the ‘severe’ category. “Now there is no paddy stubble burning in Punjab. Wheat sowing has been completed and there have been no incidents of stubble burning. Yet Delhi’s AQI is over 400. Who is responsible for pollution in Delhi?” the Chief Minister asked.

Centre’s Own Data Debunks Claims, Says CM

Targeting BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Mann said even the Central government had acknowledged in Parliament that there were no recent stubble-burning incidents in Punjab, exposing the attempt to shift blame onto the state.

Jibe at Renaming of Schemes

Taking a swipe at the BJP over renaming of government schemes, Mann criticised the rechristening of MGNREGA as the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin).

“Changing the names of schemes and places does not improve people’s lives. What matters is whether common citizens benefit and their quality of life improves,” he said. In a sarcastic remark, Mann added, “At this rate, the BJP might as well change the country’s name to Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Nagar.”

Shaheedi Sabha Arrangements

The Chief Minister also outlined foolproof arrangements being put in place for pilgrims visiting Fatehgarh Sahib during the annual Shaheedi Sabha, scheduled from December 25 to 27. He said the state government is ensuring smooth traffic management, security and essential facilities to facilitate devotees during the three-day religious congregation.