Supreme Court Suggests Jail for Farmers to Curb Stubble Burning

During a hearing on petitions linked to rising air pollution in Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court expressed concern over the recurring issue of stubble burning. The bench observed that strict punitive action is now necessary, remarking that sending some farmers to jail could act as a strong deterrent for others who continue the practice.

Senior advocate Rahul Mehra pointed out that arrests have taken place earlier as well, but most of those detained were small farmers owning very little land. He raised concerns about the plight of their families if they are jailed. Responding to this, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud clarified that the court was not advocating routine arrests, but emphasizing the need to create fear of punishment. If protecting the environment is a priority, he said, punitive action cannot be avoided.

The CJI also noted that stubble can be turned into biofuel, citing newspaper reports that say the process is not complex. While acknowledging that farmers deserve respect because they feed the nation, he underlined that safeguarding the environment is equally critical.

Amicus Curiae Aparajita Singh informed the court that although the Centre has distributed equipment and offered subsidies—up to 80% for companies and 50% for individual farmers—the problem continues unabated.

The bench further warned that if authorities fail to take decisive steps soon, the court itself will issue directions. Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati sought time to file a status report, and the court agreed to hear the matter next week. The CJI also remarked that despite several orders since 2018, the situation has seen little improvement.