BMC Removes Dia Mirza's Anti-Firecracker Video After BJP Objection
The Mumbai civic body has deleted Dia Mirza's video urging against firecrackers following objections from BJP leaders.
Dia Mirza's anti-firecracker video was removed by BMC after BJP's Ameet Satam raised objections.
The Bombay High Court had previously mandated public awareness campaigns against firecrackers due to pollution concerns.
Other celebrities' similar messages remain online despite the controversy surrounding Mirza's video.
In a significant move, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has deleted an anti-firecracker video featuring actress Dia Mirza from its social media platforms. This decision followed objections raised by Ameet Satam, the president of BJP Mumbai, who criticized the civic body for promoting Mirza's message against bursting firecrackers during the Diwali festival.
The controversy erupted when Satam expressed his discontent on social media, stating that the traditions of Diwali are deeply embedded in Indian culture and that lessons on celebration should not come from Mirza. His remarks prompted the BMC to take down the video without providing an official reason, while similar videos from other public figures, including Madhuri Dixit and Ajinkya Rahane, remain accessible.
The BMC had previously engaged various celebrities to participate in a campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of firecrackers, particularly in light of the Bombay High Court's ruling addressing rising air pollution levels. The court had imposed restrictions on the use of firecrackers in public spaces and suggested that celebrities should promote compliance with these regulations without charging fees for their involvement.
Mirza's video was part of this initiative, which marked the BMC's first attempt to utilize celebrity influence for public health campaigns amid growing concerns over air quality. However, the backlash from BJP leaders and right-wing social media users led to its removal, sparking a broader discussion about cultural identity and the celebration of festivals.
In response to the situation, Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC emphasized the cultural significance of Diwali and the need for introspection rather than external guidance on celebration practices. Additionally, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale highlighted the constitutional rights of all communities to celebrate their festivals, suggesting that while pollution is a concern, the essence of Diwali should not be diminished. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the BMC will navigate public sentiment and further campaigns regarding firecracker usage during festivals.
