Are Schools In Delhi-NCR Closed? SC Raps Delhi Govt - Check Update

The Supreme Court, on Monday, directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reconsider its decision to close schools in Delhi-NCR, especially for classes 10 to 12. The court highlighted concerns over students losing access to mid-day meals and questioned whether air quality at home is better than in schools. Amid the pollution situation in Delhi, the CPCB believes cloud seeding is not practical.

Warnings Against Pollution 

Senior advocate Meneka Guruswamy, representing parents, pointed out the hardships faced by students who rely on mid-day meals and lack air purifiers at home. Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Augustine George Masih emphasized balancing health risks with access to education, urging CAQM to review the decision within a day. 

Justice Oka also noted the challenges for students without internet access, suggesting a comparison of AQI data from past years before reopening schools. Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan cautioned against easing restrictions, warning of increased vehicular emissions from school transport.

Criticism of Delhi Govt

The court strongly criticized the Delhi government and police for lapses in enforcing Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-IV measures. These include restrictions on truck movement, bans on certain diesel vehicles, and halts on construction activities. The court directed CAQM to prosecute negligent officials under the CAQM Act, 2021, and ensure stricter enforcement of anti-pollution measures.

Support for Daily Wagers

To address the impact of restrictions on laborers and daily wagers, the court instructed CAQM to issue protective guidelines under Section 12 of the CAQM Act.

In earlier hearings, the court expressed frustration over delays in implementing stricter anti-pollution measures. It has mandated that GRAP Stage-IV restrictions remain in place, even if the AQI slightly improves. The directives aim to tackle Delhi’s severe pollution crisis with urgency and accountability.