Pollution from Diwali crackers will subside, says Yogi Adityanath
The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister defended firecracker use and criticised political opponents for raising pollution concerns while ignoring corruption.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday defended the bursting of firecrackers during Diwali, stating that any increase in pollution would eventually subside. Speaking at an event in Lucknow, the Chief Minister said that while pollution may increase during the festival, it would also end.
According to reports by The Times of India and The Indian Express, Adityanath questioned why people were worried about temporary pollution. He noted that he had personally been in Ayodhya to witness the lighting of firecrackers and said it was good that people celebrated the festival with enthusiasm.
The Chief Minister used the occasion to target political opponents, alleging that they remained silent about those who have polluted the system through corruption. He claimed that while corruption is an issue, criticism is directed at common people celebrating for a single day.
Adityanath reiterated that his government has imposed no restrictions on Diwali celebrations. He said people are now able to celebrate festivals without fear, contrasting the current situation with the period before 2017.
The Chief Minister added that over the past 9.5 years, there have been no curfews or riots in the state. He maintained that the situation in Uttar Pradesh has changed and that festivals have been celebrated with grandeur this year.