Opposition MPs in India’s Parliament created a striking visual on Wednesday by wearing gas masks to highlight Delhi’s worsening air pollution. The city’s air quality has deteriorated into the ‘very poor’ category, nearing hazardous levels. The protest comes amid growing public concern over health risks and demands for urgent government action.
Who Are the MPs Leading the Protest?
Several MPs from Congress and Left-leaning parties led the demonstration, with Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi emphasizing that issues like air pollution should be prioritized in Parliament. “Issues such as air pollution need to be discussed in the Parliament, but the government is not ready for it,” Gandhi said, signaling her party’s frustration over inaction.
#WATCH | #ParliamentWinterSession | Opposition MPs enter Parliament House wearing gas masks to protest against air pollution. pic.twitter.com/SkXYqAn9up
— ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2025
Why the Protest Over Labour Codes?
The Opposition also announced plans to protest against the four recently implemented Labour Codes. These codes, effective from November 21, 2025, consolidate 29 existing labour laws, covering wages, industrial relations, social security, and occupational safety.
While the government highlights benefits such as timely wages, inclusion of women in night shifts, and social security for gig workers, the Congress and Left parties argue that the codes could undermine workers’ rights.
Congress MP Manickam Tagore stated, “From today, the Parliament will function in the morning, and we are going to protest outside the Parliament against the Labour Codes.”
Delhi has long struggled with seasonal spikes in air pollution, exacerbated by vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and crop-burning in neighbouring states. The ‘very poor’ air quality level is known to trigger respiratory problems and other health hazards, making the MPs’ dramatic protest symbolic of broader public outrage.
Government and Parliamentary Response
Despite the opposition’s protests, the government has largely maintained that the Labour Codes will improve workers’ welfare and industrial efficiency. Parliamentary sessions continue amid high tension, with the Opposition demanding more detailed discussions on environmental and labour issues. The unusual protest, including the use of gas masks, has captured media attention and increased public awareness of the issues.
