New Delhi: The Congress party has criticised the Central government over the detention of citizens protesting against severe air pollution near India Gate, accusing it of stifling public concern instead of addressing the worsening environmental crisis.
The protest, held on Sunday, saw parents, environmental activists, and children gather to demand urgent government action for clean air. Delhi Police detained several demonstrators for assembling without permission, releasing them later.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said the protesters were fulfilling their constitutional duty under Article 51-A (g), which calls on citizens to protect and improve the natural environment. He questioned why people expressing concern over air pollution were being restrained by police. “When the government is failing miserably in its Kartavya, the people have to fulfil theirs,” Ramesh said, referencing the “Kartavya Path” renamed by the Prime Minister.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also condemned the detentions, calling them an attack on peaceful citizens. “The right to clean air is a basic human right. The right to peaceful protest is guaranteed by our Constitution,” he said on X, urging immediate action against air pollution instead of targeting protesters.
Environmental activist Vimlendu Jha said participants, including mothers and children, were taken away in buses. Police later clarified the detentions were preventive and that protests require prior permission at Jantar Mantar, the designated site.
The protesters demanded stronger government measures as air quality in the national capital continues to reach hazardous levels, posing severe health risks to millions.
