Sikh leaders say blaming only farmers for pollution is unfair

During a gathering in Jalandhar, Sikh community leaders emphasized that pollution is a multifaceted problem and cannot be pinned exclusively on agricultural practices. They highlighted contributions from industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and waste management lapses as equally significant factors. The speakers urged policymakers to adopt a holistic approach that addresses all sources of environmental harm rather than targeting a single sector. Their statements come amid ongoing debates about air and water quality in northern India, where farming communities often face criticism for pesticide use and crop residue burning. The Sikh leaders called for collaborative solutions involving farmers, industry, and government agencies to achieve sustainable outcomes.