Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena launched a scathing attack on the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday after the national Capital made headlines again for being the most polluted Capital in the world again, saying ‘any self-respecting leader would have owned up the responsibility for the same’ and the much talked about “Delhi model” is shrouded in a haze of smog.

Saxena said, “I am writing to draw your attention to the disturbing national headlines today - “Delhi - The World’s Most Polluted - Foulest Capital Again.” This dubious distinction is a matter of national shame and collective concern.”

Reacting on the LG’s letter, the AAP said the Language is rude, curt and bordering on abusive. We strongly condemn the use of such a despicable language by the LG.

Taking a potshot at the ruling AAP government, he said, “I am sure that this report card of nine years of your government is not one which you would be proud of. The much talked about “Delhi model is shrouded in a haze of smog.”

The LG highlighted the rising pollution in the winters, stating that there are a plethora of news reports and articles which underscore the lackadaisical approach of the city government to address air quality. “Any self-respecting leader would have owned up the responsibility for the same and would have taken concrete steps to address this concern by taking definitive steps and bold measures. Sadly, you choose to do neither and make it an exercise of polemics, which ultimately turns into a political slugfest, with one authority blaming the other, even as citizens suffer silently,” he said.

Saxena also hit out at Kejriwal for not just avoiding the grave issue, but also tarnishing the image of the country’s capital as many foreigners and tourists live in the city. He said, “I am forced to underline once again that Delhi houses all foreign missions and the diplomats present here, apart from being personally affected by the air pollution, would also be, I am sure, highlighting the same in their dispatches to their respective nations.”

He also pointed out the issue of pollution of Yamuna river, while comparing the river to ‘an open sewer’. LG said, “ Delhi not only has the worst air quality, but also has one of the most polluted rivers in the world. Yamuna has turned into an open sewer. It is distressing to see that you choose to ignore the gravity of the issue, and indulge merely in slogans of false promises year after year.”

Blaming the AAP government for not improving the quality of life of slum dwellers, he wrote “Millions of poor people of the city, who are living in subhuman conditions in JJ clusters and unauthorised colonies have no recourse to justice. I have been visiting some of these areas and have witnessed hellish living conditions.

I find it bewildering that when I raise an issue of this nature, the Minister in charge passes it on to the Chief Secretary with directions to fix problems that have piled up because of about a decade of inaction on part of the GNCTD, within a week. It only highlights the utter lack of seriousness to address basic services for those who live on the margins of society.”