Despite an official indication of a decline in stubble burning this year, some experts have expressed concerns that farm fires by farmers in north-west India and Pakistan may be planned to avoid detection by satellites.

Punjab recorded the highest number of stubble-burning cases on Monday. This comes as Delhi has been witnessing alarming air pollution levels for the past two days. On Sunday, the AQI level breached 450 in the national capital.

Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna on Tuesday said all judges have been asked to allow virtual hearings wherever possible in view of the severe pollution levels in the national capital region.

Despite reports of a decline in stubble burning, experts believe farmers may be outsmarting satellites by timing their fires to avoid detection, raising concerns over the accuracy of pollution data.

The BJP-led central government is only indulging in politics, and has taken no step to check stubble burning,” said Atishi.

Speaking to India Today TV, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi raised concern over the severe air pollution engulfing a large portion of northern India, calling the situation a "medical emergency" caused by rampant stubble burning in several "BJP-ruled" states.

Delhi CM Atishi said on Monday that the BJP-led central government was “only indulging in politics” and has taken no step to check stubble burning.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi declared a medical emergency in north India due to severe air pollution from stubble burning. She criticized the BJP-led central government for inaction and praised AAP-ruled Punjab for reducing instances of stubble burning.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi blamed farm fires in neighboring states - excluding Punjab, where her party also governs - for the capital's air crisis