Menka Gandhi Advocates Nationwide Ban on Fireworks to Combat Air Pollution

Call for Action Against Air Pollution

Former Union Minister Menka Gandhi has urged for a comprehensive ban on the sale and use of fireworks across the country to tackle air pollution. Speaking to reporters during an event, she highlighted that the primary contributor to air pollution in New Delhi is the use of firecrackers.

She expressed concern, stating, 'If you set off fireworks worth ₹800 crores over just two nights, what will happen to the air quality?' Gandhi emphasized that a nationwide prohibition on firecrackers is essential. She further remarked that those who indulge in fireworks should be labeled as anti-national, as their actions adversely affect everyone.

Instead of solely relying on the government, she called for the public to initiate a movement to curb air pollution. Commenting on the trafficking of cows, Gandhi noted, 'Millions of cows are being trafficked from Odisha and Bihar to Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. It is our responsibility to stop this. Not a single cow should end up in a slaughterhouse.'

Criticizing the BJP-led central government, she stated, 'When the BJP came to power, I expected them to halt beef exports as it was part of their manifesto. Unfortunately, this has not happened yet. We cannot allow such practices to continue in the name of employment.'