Scathing Attack: TV Debates Causing More Pollution, Says Supreme Court

New Delhi: In a scathing observation, the Supreme Court on Wednesday said that debates on TV news channels are creating more pollution as everyone has ‘own agenda’.

A bench headed by Chief Justice NV Ramana was hearing a plea on to air pollution in Delhi and adjoining areas of the national capital.

“Debates on TV are creating more pollution than anybody. They don’t understand what is happening and what is the issue. Statements are taken out of context. All have their own agenda. We can’t help and we can’t control. We are focussing on working out the solution,” said the bench, which also comprises Justices DY Chandrachud and Surya Kant.

Urging states in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas to follow directions issued by the ‘Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas’, the apex court said it will take a call on harsher measures after November 21 as the Union government quoted meteorological experts as saying that the situation will improve by then.

The Delhi government has ordered the closure of schools this week and asked its staff to work from home while asking private companies to adopt such measures partially.

The Haryana government has also taken measures, shutting down schools and stopping construction activities in four districts.