Farmer unions cannot absolve themselves of their responsibility

Minna Zutshi

Air pollution is a serious concern that affects all of us. The farmer unions' call to defy the ban on stubble burning clearly means adding to the already deteriorating quality of air. Environmental issues are non-negotiable. No one has the right to worsen the air quality. The National Green Tribunal rapped the farmer unions for adopting anti-ban position. The tribunal told the farmers that their support is a must to tackle the issue of stubble burning. In fact, a constructive approach on part of farmers would help improve the quality of air that has been deteriorating over the years. The farmer unions, instead of defying the ban, should come together to find a solution to the problem of stubble burning. The farmer unions cannot absolve themselves of their responsibility.