Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Booed With 'AQI' Chants At Messi Event; Minister Sirsa Apologises For Pollution

In a special report on Delhi's worsening air crisis, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta faced a hostile reception at the Arun Jaitley Stadium during an event with football legend Lionel Messi. Spectators were heard chanting 'AQI, AQI' and booing the Chief Minister, highlighting public anger over the severe pollution. Addressing the crisis, Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa issued an apology, stating, 'I would like to apologise to the people of Delhi... it is not possible for any elected government to completely reduce pollution levels within 9-10 months.' Sirsa also announced strict measures, including a ban on fuel for vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUCC) certificate starting 'from tomorrow'. The programme features analysis from India Today's Sneha Mordani on the gaps in planning and the need for a long-term strategy across the National Capital Region.