In a concerning development, Delhi continues to grapple with severe air quality issues, hitting the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) in six years. November alone witnessed a staggering 10 days with a 24-hour average AQI falling in the ‘severe’ category (401 to 500).
Current AQI Situation
This November, the 24-hour average AQI in Delhi stood at 372, marking the second-highest for the month since 2017. The situation remains dire, primarily attributed to local emissions, stubble burning, and low temperatures. On a recent Thursday, the AQI escalated from 398 (upper end of ‘very poor’ category) at 4 pm to 402 (in the ‘severe’ category) by 9 pm.
Legal Developments: NewsClick Founder’s Judicial Custody Extended
Judicial Custody Extension
In a separate development, a Delhi court extended the judicial custody of NewsClick founder-editor Prabir Purkayastha and HR head Amit Chakraborty by 21 days. Arrested on October 3 by the Delhi Police Special Cell, they face allegations of receiving illegal funding from China, routed through the United States. The charges include sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
AAP’s Campaign Amidst Legal Challenges
AAP’s Political Move
On Friday, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) initiated its first Lok Sabha campaign in the capital, rallying support for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The campaign addresses concerns about Kejriwal’s potential arrest in the excise policy case. Supporters sported ‘Mai bhi Kejriwal’ caps, highlighting issues such as the alleged liquor scam and questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance on corruption.
Crackdown on Bootleggers Intensifies
Bootlegging Crackdown
The Excise Department’s recent efforts against bootleggers have resulted in the crushing of over 1.5 lakh liquor bottles, including country liquor, Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), and Foreign Liquor. Between September 1, 2022, and November 30, 2023, 520 FIRs were filed, leading to the arrest of 498 alleged bootleggers. Seized bottles include 3,288 of foreign liquor, 30,991 of IMFL, and a staggering 1,13,498 of country-made liquor.
Delhi faces a dual challenge with worsening air quality and ongoing legal controversies, making it imperative for authorities to address both environmental and legal concerns. The city’s residents and stakeholders await comprehensive measures to alleviate the deteriorating air quality situation and ensure justice prevails in legal proceedings.
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