Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday launched a sharp critique of the central government over worsening air quality across India, particularly in North India, calling it a “health emergency” and urging immediate parliamentary action.

In a social media post, Gandhi highlighted the fears of parents whose children are exposed to hazardous pollution levels, saying that families are “exhausted, scared and angry” as air quality continues to deteriorate year after year with no visible intervention from the Centre.

“Every mother I meet tells me the same thing: her child is growing up breathing toxic air,” Gandhi wrote. He directly questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying: “Modi ji, India’s children are choking in front of us. How can you stay silent? Why does your government show no urgency, no plan, no accountability?”

Call for Action

Gandhi demanded that the government convene an immediate and detailed debate in Parliament on the state of air pollution. He also called for the implementation of a strict, enforceable national action plan to combat the crisis, stressing that clean air is a basic right for every child.

He shared an eight-minute video of a discussion with mothers across different cities, highlighting their concerns about children’s health and the lack of effective government measures to curb pollution.

Air Quality Situation in North India

Air quality indices across Delhi-NCR and other northern regions have repeatedly entered the “severe” category, prompting health advisories and increasing public anxiety. The combination of vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and seasonal crop burning has contributed to this persistent crisis.

Gandhi’s comments come amid growing public frustration over chronic air pollution, with experts warning that prolonged exposure can lead to serious health consequences, particularly for children and vulnerable populations.

The Congress leader’s call underscores rising demands for accountability, policy action, and immediate intervention to mitigate the country’s toxic air crisis.