Bombay High Court Orders BMC to Reinstate Dia Mirza’s Diwali Video
The Bombay High Court has ordered the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to re-upload a video featuring actor Dia Mirza, in which she encourages citizens to refrain from bursting firecrackers on public streets during Diwali. This directive follows the removal of the video from the civic body’s social media accounts after some political leaders raised objections. The court’s decision highlights the ongoing debate surrounding public health and environmental issues during the festive season.
Court’s Displeasure Over Political Objections
A division bench, consisting of Justice Girish Kulkarni and Justice Dr. Neela Gokhale, expressed their discontent regarding the controversy and the comments directed at Mirza. The judges stated they were “disturbed by the stray comments made by some politicians” and reminded those objecting that “India is a Secular country.”
The video was created at the BMC’s request as part of an awareness campaign aimed at addressing firecracker use and air pollution, following the court’s previous directives. The civic body had also enlisted other public figures to promote a Diwali celebration that minimizes air and noise pollution.
Environmental Concerns Should Not Be Politicized
During the hearing, the bench questioned the basis of the objections to Mirza’s involvement in the campaign, particularly those linked to her religion. “A festival is for everyone to celebrate… No individual can be isolated from celebrating any festival in this country… how can you object to someone’s participation just because that person is from some other religion? Aren’t we a secular country?” the judges remarked.
Justice Gokhale emphasized that the matter revolves around environmental and public health concerns. “Everyone is breathing the same air, be it anyone,” she noted, adding, “It’s not that barring firecrackers is taking away your right to celebrate the festival.” The court also referenced the Supreme Court’s observation that Diwali is celebrated across various communities, asserting that environmental issues should not be framed as communal disputes.
BMC Directed to Restore the Video
The bench instructed the BMC to restore Mirza’s video, criticizing the removal as a “knee-jerk reaction” to political objections. “Please put it again and restore the confidence of the people in the Constitution,” the court urged. They stressed that the balance between individual participation and community spirit should not be disrupted by “loose comments.”
The court reiterated that discussions about health, pollution, and the environment should be devoid of factionalism. The BMC had previously removed Mirza’s video following political pushback, while videos featuring other celebrities remained accessible. This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the civic body’s pollution-free Diwali campaign.
Mirza clarified that the video was intended for public awareness, stating, “The video was recorded in the interest of public awareness, with the intention of encouraging a healthier and more mindful celebration.” She emphasized that air pollution is a pressing public health issue. The Bombay High Court has consistently issued directives regarding firecracker use and pollution, reiterating that the focus should remain on environmental impacts rather than the identities of those involved in the awareness campaign.
