‘Do Not Drag Farmers Into Political Battles’: Bhagwant Mann Speaks on Delhi Pollution Row

Delhi's toxic smog triggers political discourse as Bhagwant Mann urges leaders to pursue science-based, joint measures to reduce emissions and protect Punjab farmers from blame in the pollution debate.

Delhi’s toxic smog has again triggered political debate, with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann urging leaders to stop blaming Punjab’s farmers for Delhi air pollution and instead work on real solutions as the capital’s air quality slips into severe levels once more.

In a video shared on the Aam Aadmi Party’s 'X’ handle, Bhagwant Mann defended Punjab’s farming community and warned political rivals against using them as easy targets. Mann said accusations against Punjab over stubble burning are unfair and argued that Punjab should not be dragged into a political fight over Delhi air pollution.

Delhi air pollution and Bhagwant Mann’s appeal on toxic air

Bhagwant Mann expressed serious concern about conditions in the national capital, highlighting health and travel disruptions caused by Delhi air pollution. He said, “At present, Delhi’s air has turned toxic, making it difficult for people to breathe. Flights are being cancelled.” Mann added that doctors now advise against morning walks because of pollution, reversing earlier health guidance.

Mann stressed that political blame games will not clean the air and urged both the central government and Delhi government to focus on field-level measures against Delhi air pollution. According to Mann, the priority should be practical steps that reduce emissions, not speeches that corner Punjab’s farmers or treat them as villains in the pollution debate.

Delhi air pollution, Punjab farmers and Guru Nanak’s teachings

Referring to Sikh teachings, Mann linked the debate on Delhi air pollution to long-held values on nature. Mann said, “Centuries ago, Guru Nanak Sahib gave the status of teacher to air, father to water and mother to the earth. Farmers in Punjab are still upholding the same respect and reverence today.” He argued that farmers in Punjab continue to respect this guidance in daily farming practices.

He repeated that Punjab’s farmers deserve appreciation, not allegations, while discussions on Delhi air pollution continue across parties. Mann’s message also included a sharper political line: “Do not drag Punjab into a political battle Centuries ago, Guru Nanak Sahib gave the status of teacher to air, father to water and mother to the earth, and farmers in Punjab continue to uphold that respect. Do not level allegations against Punjab’s farmers and instead work towards improving Delhi’s environment. At present, Delhi’s…”

Delhi air pollution, political tussle and stubble burning debate

Mann’s comments on Delhi air pollution come during ongoing arguments among the central government, the Delhi government and the Punjab government over stubble burning and stubble management schemes. He insisted that experts should be called to design clear, science-based responses to this severe pollution problem instead of placing the entire burden on Punjab’s farmers.

Mann maintained that farmers feed the entire country and should not be portrayed as culprits whenever Delhi air pollution spikes. He urged leaders to invite specialists, examine data on pollution sources and then frame joint policies, while keeping Punjab out of what Mann described as a political fight over responsibility for Delhi’s dirty air.