Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, nov 27: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Wednesday voiced deep concern over Delhi’s hazardous air quality, noting that the pollution had become so severe that even his daily morning walk had left him feeling unwell.

The remarks surfaced during the hearing of petitions related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), when senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, representing the Election Commission of India, sought exemption from physical court appearance due to congestion and health issues aggravated by the capital’s poor air.

As the CJI asked whether the condition was linked to Delhi’s pollution levels, Dwivedi confirmed it. Sharing his own experience, the CJI said, “The only exercise I do is walking. But even that is difficult now. Yesterday I walked for 55 minutes, and till morning I had problems.”

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal added that he had stopped going for walks entirely. “To breathe this obnoxious air… at our age…” he remarked, highlighting that the Air Quality Index remains dangerously high even in the evenings.

Dwivedi then urged the Supreme Court to consider allowing virtual appearances until the air quality improves. The CJI responded cautiously, emphasizing that any decision must involve consultation with the legal fraternity. “If at all such a decision is taken, I would like to take the Bar into confidence. If something is to be done, if the Bar thinks so, it should be a uniform rule,” he said, adding that he would discuss the matter with bar association leaders during the Constitution Day function later in the day.

He assured, “Keeping everything in mind, if the Bar Association makes a proposal, we will be open to considering it.”

Justice P.S. Narasimha, speaking earlier on the issue, had already warned lawyers about the “very, very serious” pollution levels, urging them to opt for virtual hearings to avoid health risks. “This pollution will cause permanent damage,” he cautioned.