'Masks not enough': SC chooses virtual hearing amid Delhi pollution
13 Nov 2025

The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed grave concern over the alarming pollution levels in Delhi.

The court even asked senior lawyers to attend hearings virtually, stressing that masks were insufficient protection against the hazardous air quality.

"Why are you all appearing here? We have a virtual hearing facility. Please avail it," Justice PS Narsimha said, warning of potential permanent damage from the pollution.

'Even masks not enough'
Court

When senior Advocate Kapil Sibal said lawyers were using masks, Justice Narasimha replied, "Even masks are not enough...We will discuss with the Chief Justice as well."

Delhi's air quality has been in the 'severe' category for three days in a row. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an AQI of 460 in Bawana and 216 in NSIT Dwarka on Thursday morning.

Other areas like Anand Vihar (431), Chandni Chowk (455), and Ashok Vihar (348) also recorded alarming AQI levels.

GRAP Stage 3 imposed
Pollution sources

In light of the severe air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across NCR.

The measures include a ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities, as well as restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Noida.

The Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has also directed primary classes up to Grade 5 to switch to hybrid or online mode.