Former IAS officer LV Nilesh, now settled abroad, has stirred a debate on social media after sharing a post contrasting Delhi’s worsening air quality with the clear skies overseas. His remarks have drawn both support and criticism online as the capital continues to battle hazardous pollution levels.
Nilesh’s Post Goes Viral
LV Nilesh, who once served in the Indian Administrative Service before moving abroad and founding the tech platform CloudGenius.app, shared his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter). Referring to Delhi’s North Block Secretariat, he wrote, “If I hadn’t left India, I’d have to live and breathe in this mess otherwise known as the North Block Secretariat.”
If I hadn’t left India, I would have had to live and breathe in this mess otherwise known as the North Block Secretariat.
Note the stark contrast. 🤯 https://t.co/vBKuC0Te7p pic.twitter.com/GHUUtJfQNQ
— LV Nilesh (@LVNilesh) November 2, 2025
He also shared two pictures side by side — one of Delhi shrouded in thick smog and another of himself standing before Mount Rainier National Park in the United States. Captioning it “Note the stark contrast,” he highlighted the difference between Delhi’s polluted skyline and the clean air abroad.
Delhi’s Air Quality Remains “Very Poor”
The post came at a time when Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 316, falling under the “very poor” category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The national capital continues to choke under layers of toxic smog caused by stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and weather conditions that trap pollutants.
Health experts have raised serious concerns about the rising number of patients reporting breathing difficulties and other pollution-related ailments. Doctors have warned that prolonged exposure to polluted air can cause long-term damage to the lungs, heart, and other organs.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
Nilesh’s comments quickly gained traction, sparking strong reactions from users. Many agreed with his criticism of Delhi’s worsening pollution. One user wrote, “This is becoming a shame for India and a health emergency for Delhiites.” Another added, “Probably only country in the world where cities have degraded massively even though other developmental parameters have remained stable or gotten better.”
However, others accused him of hypocrisy. Critics argued that as a former IAS officer, Nilesh was once in a position to help solve such problems. One comment read, “You were supposed to be part of the solution.” Another said, “Sir, I thought you did IAS to protect and serve the country.”
A third user added, “Kya faida, showing the same country in a bad light, which made you capable and gave you responsibility to serve the country. Still trying to justify your decision and get a certificate from social media about what a remarkable decision you made.”
Health Experts Sound Alarm
Meanwhile, as pollution levels remain dangerously high, doctors and health professionals have urged residents to take precautions. They recommend limiting outdoor activity, wearing N95 masks, and using air purifiers indoors. Some experts have even advised people with respiratory or heart conditions to temporarily relocate until air quality improves.
With no immediate relief in sight, Delhi’s pollution crisis once again highlights the urgent need for sustained action and policy enforcement.
