Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Rejects Claims Linking Delhi Pollution to Punjab Stubble Smoke

By A Staff Reporter

Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday strongly rejected the narrative that stubble-burning smoke from Punjab is responsible for Delhi’s deteriorating air quality. Speaking to reporters, Mann said the claim is scientifically unfounded and politically motivated.

“The smoke from Punjab doesn't even reach Delhi,” he asserted, explaining that for pollutants to travel from Punjab to the capital, specific wind conditions would be required. “For smoke to travel from Punjab to Delhi in 10 days, it requires wind blowing from north to south at 30 kmph, which never happens,” he said, calling the accusation a “joke.”

Mann added that even the claim that smoke lingers over central Delhi is illogical. “The smoke that travels to Delhi stays over Connaught Place! What a joke!” he remarked, criticising what he described as oversimplified and misleading narratives.

Drawing attention to Delhi’s geographical surroundings, Mann pointed out that several neighbouring states—Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh—also contribute to regional pollution levels. “Plus, there is Delhi's own pollution,” he noted, emphasising that the capital’s AQI had already touched 400 even before paddy harvesting began in Punjab.

He also highlighted that Punjab produces rice primarily for the rest of the country. “Ninety-nine percent of the paddy harvested in Punjab is sent across the country. Rice is not even a staple food for people of Punjab,” he said, arguing that farmers should not be unfairly blamed.