'Change lifestyle': SC slams affluent class during air pollution hearing
What's the story
Several schools in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) are flouting a Supreme Court order by holding outdoor sports activities despite severe air pollution, senior Advocate Aparajita Singh, the amicus curiae in the matter, informed a bench. She said that despite clear directions against open sporting activities during November-December due to pollution, some schools have found ways to continue these activities. In reponse, the bench-led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said it will pass effective orders, which can be enforceable.
Notification issued
CAQM issues notification against outdoor sports
The bench said it will hear the matter on Wednesday. During the hearing, Singh told the bench that the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had also issued a notification prohibiting outdoor sports during this period. Singh said, "CAQM has taken out a notification saying that the Supreme Court has ordered that children cannot play outdoors. But they have found ways and means to bypass the orders."
Enforceable orders
CJI Kant emphasizes enforceable court orders
Responding, CJI Kant said, "If the problem is there, then...what kind of directions can be given, we should only issue such directions." "Otherwise, they are likely to say, if we pass an order, either they are unable to comply with it, or people don't understand the sensitivity of it. We have to find solutions to both...There are certain directions which can be possibly be enforced. People will have to adapt to those conditions. They have to modify...change their lifestyles."
Social impact
CJI Kant highlights impact on poor communities
CJI Kant also highlighted the need to consider the impact of such orders on poorer communities. He noted that enforcement of GRAP-IV measures has left construction workers without jobs. The chief justice urged lawyers involved in the MC Mehta case to present their issues and suggestions through amicus curiae instead of filing applications for media attention.