Retired Supreme Court Judge: Fighting Delhi’s Air Pollution is Every Citizen’s Duty

A retired Supreme Court judge has issued a powerful call to action on India’s pollution crisis. Justice Abhay S. Oka says environmental protection must become a duty for every citizen, not just activists. He spoke as Delhi’s air quality plunged back into the ‘severe’ category.Justice Oka stressed that real change requires a shift in public mindset. According to The Indian Express, he argued that after 75 years of the Constitution, protecting the environment remains an unfulfilled duty for most people.

A Collective Responsibility Beyond Activists and Courts

Justice Abhay S. Oka retired from the Supreme Court in May 2025. He now serves as an Honorary Professor of Practice. His comments highlight a critical gap in India’s environmental fight.He pointed out that activists and even judges face attacks for prioritizing green issues. Society often labels climate campaigners as “anti-national” instead of supporting them. Justice Oka recalled facing government accusations of bias over a 2017 noise pollution case in Maharashtra.The retired judge believes the current approach is unsustainable. He says the responsibility cannot be confined to a few people filing court cases. Lasting improvement needs widespread public ownership of the problem.

Delhi Wakes to Severe Smog as AQI Crosses 400

Justice Oka’s statement coincides with another dangerous spike in Delhi’s pollution. Residents woke to heavy smog and poor visibility on a recent Monday morning. The capital’s average air quality index (AQI) hit 402.Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) confirmed the severe levels. More than half of Delhi’s 40 air monitoring stations recorded ‘severe’ air quality. Twelve other stations were in the ‘very poor’ category, with readings near 400.This persistent crisis shows the scale of the challenge. It underscores why individual action is now as crucial as government policy. The health impacts of breathing such toxic air affect millions of citizens daily.

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The path to cleaner air requires a fundamental shift. Every individual must see environmental conservation as a personal duty. Only a collective effort can solve the severe Delhi air pollution crisis.

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What was Delhi’s AQI when this was reported?

The average AQI in Delhi was 402, placing it in the ‘severe’ category. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board showed more than half of monitoring stations reported severe air quality levels.

Who is Justice Abhay S. Oka?

He is a retired Supreme Court judge of India. Justice Oka now works as an Honorary Professor of Practice at SVKM Pravin Gandhi College of Law following his retirement in May 2025.

What does ‘severe’ AQI mean for health?

A ‘severe’ AQI poses serious health risks even to healthy people. It can trigger respiratory illnesses and aggravate existing heart and lung conditions, prompting advice to avoid outdoor activities.

Why does Justice Oka mention climate activists?

He states that activists are unfairly attacked instead of being supported. He argues that placing the entire burden on them is ineffective, and broader public participation is essential.

What is the main cause of Delhi’s winter pollution?

While complex, key factors include vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust, and seasonal agricultural burning in neighboring states, all trapped by cool, still winter air.