Kiran Bedi urges ban on air purifiers in government offices
What's the story
Former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Kiran Bedi has called for a ban on the installation of air purifiers in government offices and official residences. She argued that government officials should experience the effects of air pollution firsthand to understand its severity. "How will they breathe polluted air to know what happens? Further, it inhibits their going to the field and checking hot spots," she wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Twitter Post
Bedi's post on X
How about installation of air purifiers in govt offices and residences at govt cost get banned?
— Kiran Bedi (@thekiranbedi) November 29, 2025
Or else how will they breathe polluted air to know what happens.
Further it inhibits their going to field and checking hot spots.
We need solutions please, not to hurt anyone.
Health concerns
Bedi highlights health impact of pollution on citizens
Bedi also pointed out that many citizens are suffering from health issues due to poor air quality. She described Delhi's worsening air as a "public-health emergency" and said, "While many are suffering from chest congestion, running noses, sneezing and coughing...All need healthy air. It's a right." Her comments come after she urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take a personal interest in tackling the pollution crisis.
Leadership call
Bedi urges PM Modi to lead anti-pollution efforts
In her message to PM Modi, Bedi recalled his effective leadership during her time as Lieutenant Governor in Puducherry. She wrote, "Sir please forgive me for pleading again. But I have seen your very effective Zoom sessions during my time in Puducherry." She stressed that if each agency performs its role with leadership and coordination, NCR's air pollution can be effectively controlled.
Pollution status
Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor'
Delhi's air quality remained in the "very poor" category on Saturday with an AQI of 316, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The forecast indicates no immediate improvement in the coming week. November has seen "very poor" AQI almost every day, with three days crossing into the "severe" category.
Action plan
Bedi outlines plan for coordinated response to air pollution
Bedi also outlined a "considered responsibility plan" for tackling air pollution. She suggested that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) enforce national standards, while the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) should ensure uniform directives across NCR. District Magistrates would lead daily field execution with municipal bodies managing waste and dust control.