• Source:JND

A walk organised by the Congress’ student organisation, National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), at Delhi’s South Extension and Connaught Place took the people by surprise who had gone shopping. The walk saw a swarm of people, dressed as Santa Clause walking through the markets wearing gas masks. 

These volunteers distributed pamphlets, giving masks, candies, and small notes to people. The notes mentioned Delhi’s worsening air quality index and how it is becoming increasingly dangerous for the people. 

The warning was loud and clear, Delhi’s air quality index has surged beyond 500, pushing pollution to dangerously high levels. Prolonged exposure to such air is taking a toll on children, senior citizens, and even those in good health. Several onlookers paused to read the messages and voiced concerns about how long the crisis might persist.

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What Did Volunteers Demand?

According to NDTV, the protestors came with the following demands:

  • Accountability of the pollution-controlling authorities

  • Strict control on major sources of pollution

  • A crystal clear roadmap for clean air

  • Protection for the vulnerable population including the children and elderly

The protestors also urged the people who were present in the area to join the movement, sign the clean air petition, and raise their voice against worsening air quality in the capital. 

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NSUI National President Varun Choudhary said clean air is no longer a choice but a necessity. "When even Santa has to wear a mask in Delhi, it shows how badly governments have failed. Our children are growing up in gas chambers, and citizens are being forced to choose between celebration and survival," Choudhary said.

"In 15 days of Parliament, not even 15 minutes were spent discussing the air we breathe. Clean air is a fundamental right. We demand an immediate, serious and time-bound action plan to guarantee every citizen's right to breathe," he added.


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