New Delhi, Jan 8 (UNI) Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Thursday said people should be told the truth about what the previous government did or failed to do on pollution control over the past 11 years.
He claimed that the current government has taken concrete steps within 11 months and delivered some of the cleanest air days in recent years.
Sirsa said air pollution is a serious public health issue and should not be politicised. Keeping this in mind, the Delhi Assembly session has been extended by one day to allow a detailed discussion on pollution and long-term solutions.
He said the Aam Aadmi Party government failed to control pollution during its 11-year rule, and the present situation is the result of weak policies and lack of accountability. According to him, a fact-based and solution-oriented debate is needed to understand the real causes of pollution and fix past mistakes.
The minister said the House lost two important days as proceedings were disrupted due to the use of objectionable language by the Leader of the Opposition. As a result, no meaningful discussion could take place.
Sirsa said Thursday was scheduled to be the last day of the session, but the government’s priority is to ensure a serious discussion on pollution in the interest of public health and Delhi’s future.
He clarified that the discussion is not against any political party but about accountability, transparency and citizens’ health. He expressed hope that the opposition would participate constructively in the discussion so people can understand who is responsible and what steps are being taken.
Referring to Leader of the Opposition Atishi, Sirsa said she remained absent from the House for the past two days despite questioning the delay in the discussion on pollution. He urged her and all opposition MLAs to take part in the debate scheduled for Thursday.
“Running away does not lead to solutions. Dialogue is necessary to address pollution and inform the public,” he said, adding that meaningful participation will help bring the truth before the people of Delhi.
