New Delhi | January 8, 2026: Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Thursday stressed that the people of Delhi must be presented with the truth about the performance of the previous government in pollution control over the last 11 years. He contrasted this with the present government under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, which, in just 11 months, has implemented decisive measures, resulting in some of the cleanest air days Delhi has experienced in recent years.
Pollution Is a Public Health Issue, Not a Political One
Addressing the Assembly, Sirsa emphasized that air pollution directly affects public health and should not be reduced to political confrontation. He pointed out that the ongoing session of the Delhi Legislative Assembly was extended by one additional day to allow a comprehensive and meaningful discussion on pollution and long-term solutions.
Need for a Fact-Based and Solution-Oriented Debate
Sirsa stated that pollution affects the health and well-being of millions of Delhi residents. He said the matter requires sincere, fact-based, and solution-oriented discussion. According to him, Delhi’s current challenges are the result of policy paralysis, hollow claims, and consistent avoidance of responsibility during the 11-year tenure of the Aam Aadmi Party government. He alleged that the previous administration failed entirely on pollution control, leaving unresolved problems that continue to impact the city.
Disruptions in Assembly Proceedings
The Minister noted that while a detailed discussion is necessary to identify the root causes of pollution and propose sustainable, time-bound solutions, proceedings over the past two days were repeatedly disrupted. He attributed these disruptions to the objectionable language used by the Leader of the Opposition in reference to revered Guru Sahibs, which hindered substantive debate.
Government’s Priority: Ensuring Meaningful Discussion
Sirsa clarified that the current day was originally scheduled to be the final day of the session. However, he emphasized that the government’s priority is to ensure a serious discussion on pollution in the interest of Delhi’s public health. The extension of the session reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the issue responsibly rather than avoiding debate.
Pollution Debate Focused on Accountability, Not Politics
The Minister stated that the discussion on pollution is not aimed against any political party but is meant to ensure accountability and transparency. He expressed hope that the opposition would participate constructively, present its perspective, and also listen to the government’s position, so that Delhi residents can understand both the causes of the current pollution situation and the steps being taken to address it.
Opposition Urged to Participate Constructively
Addressing the opposition directly, Sirsa pointed out that the Leader of the Opposition, Atishi, had remained absent over the last two days despite her repeated questions about the lack of discussion on pollution. He said that meaningful solutions cannot emerge without dialogue, and avoiding the House does not lead to solutions. He urged Atishi and all opposition MLAs to actively participate in the detailed discussion scheduled for the next day.
Conclusion: Dialogue Essential for Effective Solutions
Sirsa concluded by expressing hope that the opposition would take part in the proceedings, place its views on record, and engage in constructive dialogue. He emphasized that such participation is essential to ensure that the truth about pollution control efforts over the years is clearly presented to the people of Delhi and that effective, long-term solutions are discussed in the public interest.
