Wed Sep 17 11:35:40 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Supreme Court of India and the Union government are at odds over the issue of stubble burning by farmers, a major contributor to air pollution in northern India. The Chief Justice of India advocated for reintroducing criminal prosecution as a deterrent, suggesting a specific law if necessary. The Centre prefers a policy of engagement and support for farmers, rather than punishment, arguing that criminalizing the practice is not feasible. The court, however, emphasized that while farmers are important, they also have a responsibility to protect the environment and that a deterrent, like selective prosecution, is necessary to send a message. The court has ordered the Centre to submit a detailed status report on the situation in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, and is considering issuing a mandamus (court order) for a uniform policy to address the problem, independent of election cycles.
**News Article:**
**Supreme Court and Government Clash Over Stubble Burning Solution**
*By Staff Reporter*
**NEW DELHI, September 17, 2025** – The Supreme Court and the Union government found themselves sharply divided today over the approach to curbing stubble burning, a practice that blankets northern India in toxic smog each winter.
During a hearing, Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai expressed strong concerns about the continued prevalence of stubble burning despite significant government investment in mitigation efforts. He suggested the reintroduction of criminal prosecution for farmers who engage in the practice, even proposing a separate law to address it. “If some people are behind the bars, it will give the right message,” the CJI stated to Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Centre.
However, the Union government, through Ms. Bhati, argued against criminalizing the farmers. She stated the government policy focused on collaboration and support for farmers, exempting them from prosecution under the Commission for Air Quality Management Act. Prosecuting farmers criminally would not be feasible.
The Chief Justice countered, emphasizing that while farmers are vital to the nation’s food security, they also bear a responsibility to protect the environment. He suggested that selective prosecution could serve as a powerful deterrent. “You should give them the carrot and then the stick,” the CJI said. “You cannot be swayed solely because of a five-year exercise [elections].”
Ms. Bhati denied that the government’s stance was influenced by electoral considerations, asserting it was a matter of policy.
The Court has now directed the Centre to file a detailed status report on the ground situation in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, the states most affected by stubble burning. The CJI also warned the government to create a uniform policy, indicating it would consider issuing a mandamus (court order) if the Centre fails to develop a comprehensive and consistent strategy to address the problem. The CJI stated “You should take all the States aboard and then come up with a uniform policy [on stubble-burning]. You consider doing that, or we will issue mandamus.”
The debate highlights the complex challenge of balancing environmental concerns with the socio-economic realities of farming communities in India. The next steps in this legal battle could have significant implications for air quality and agricultural practices across the region.
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