Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday played down concerns over pollution caused by Diwali celebrations, saying it would subside and questioned why those raising the issue remain silent about people who had allegedly polluted the system through corruption.
Addressing a government programme in Lucknow, Adityanath said people had celebrated Diwali with enthusiasm, and there was no need to be overly concerned about the pollution issue.
“Some people are saying that pollution has increased because of Diwali. So what if it has increased? It will subside as well. Why are you worried?” he said.
“Those who have polluted the entire system through their corrupt deeds are not questioned. But if the public bursts firecrackers and celebrates with fireworks for one day, suddenly pollution becomes an issue,” he added.
Defending the celebrations, the chief minister said people had done the right thing by celebrating Diwali with fireworks and enthusiasm.
“People celebrated Diwali with great enthusiasm and burst plenty of firecrackers. We had said that we would not impose any restrictions. Let people burst firecrackers and celebrate,” the CM said.