The Supreme Court today criticised the Haryana and Punjab state governments for non-compliance in one of its earlier orders related to air pollution due to stubble burning. A bench headed by Justice Abhay S. Oka directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to take penal action against Haryana government officials for failure to take action against the violators. The bench, hearing the issue of non-compliance with CAQM directions, set a one-week deadline to prosecute violators.

The Apex Court summoned the Haryana Chief Secretary to appear on 23rd October to address the issue. It has also directed the Chief Secretary of Punjab to remain present in the court next Wednesday and explain the non-compliance of order and why no action has been taken against officials.