New Delhi, Dec 12: Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Friday drew attention to the escalating air-pollution crisis in India’s major cities.

He urged the government to hold a detailed parliamentary discussion and to formulate a comprehensive, long-term strategy to tackle the issue.

Gandhi stressed that the health and future of millions of children are at risk, noting a surge in lung-related illnesses caused by toxic air.

Raising the matter during Zero Hour, he said the discussion could be conducted constructively, without political confrontation, with the aim of finding real solutions.

“This is not an ideological issue. Everyone in this House will agree that air pollution—and the harm it is causing our people—is something we should work together on,” he said.

Responding to Gandhi’s remarks, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the government was open to a discussion, adding that the Business Advisory Committee of the Lok Sabha could allocate time for it.

Highlighting the severity of the crisis, Gandhi said, “Most of our major cities are living under a blanket of poisonous air. Millions of children are developing lung diseases; their future is being destroyed. People are getting cancer, and elderly citizens are struggling to breathe.”

Calling for immediate action, he emphasized the need for a clear governmental roadmap to eliminate air pollution in urban areas.

“We are more than willing to cooperate with the government to develop such a plan,” he added.

Gandhi said this issue offers an opportunity for both the opposition and the ruling benches to demonstrate unity and show the nation that they can work together on a matter of critical importance.