Supreme Court asks lawyers to appear via VC as Delhi chokes in ‘severe’ air News24 –

The Supreme Court on Thursday (November 13, 2025) described the situation in Delhi as “very serious.” Expressing concern regarding the toxic pollution levels in the capital, the top court, led by a Bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Atul Chandrukar, asked the senior lawyers to appear virtually via video conferencing. The court observed, “Situation is very very serious! Why are you all appearing here? We have the virtual hearing facility. Please avail it. This pollution will cause permanent damage.”

“Even Masks Are Not Enough”: Supreme Court

On Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal mentioning that lawyers are wearing masks, the court emphasized, “Even masks are not enough.” It will not suffice. We will discuss with the Chief Justice as well.” The scathing remarks came as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the ‘severe’ category, breaching the 400-mark, for the third consecutive day on Thursday.

GRAP III Invoked, Stubble Burning Continues

In view of the deteriorating air pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced a 9-point action plan under GRAP Stage-III in the National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect.

Stubble Burning Continues, AQI Reaches ‘406’

Earlier on Wednesday, the Bench comprising CJI BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran asked the Punjab and Haryana governments regarding the action taken to control stubble burning, one of the factors that contributed to air pollution in Delhi and surrounding regions.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI was recorded at 406 under the ‘severe category’ at 5 pm on Thursday. The situation remained grim in Delhi and adjoining cities as stubble burning continued to contribute majorly to the toxic haze, with the capital’s skyline barely visible.

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