Civic Body Retreats After Political Backlash

MUMBAI — The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has removed an anti-firecracker public awareness video featuring actor Dia Mirza from its social media handles following sharp objections from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The video, which formed part of a broader municipal campaign discouraging the bursting of firecrackers to combat escalating noise and air pollution, drew immediate ire from senior political figures. While Mirza's specific video was taken down without an official explanation from civic authorities, campaign messages featuring other prominent personalities—including actor Madhuri Dixit, cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, and Marathi actor Nishigandha Wad—remained active online.

The Political Row

Mumbai BJP President Ameet Satam strongly objected to the inclusion of Mirza, taking to social media to voice his disapproval of the campaign's messaging during the festive season.

"We don't need lessons on how to celebrate Diwali from Dia Mirza. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture," Satam wrote in his public critique, directly tagging the civic body.

The removal of the video also drew commentary from Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC, who emphasized the cultural identity associated with the festival of lights. Meanwhile, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale weighed in on the controversy, asserting that constitutional rights safeguard the celebration of all religious festivals while acknowledging the parallel necessity of managing environmental concerns.

Judicial Context and the Campaign

The civic body's public awareness drive was initiated in direct response to directives from the Bombay High Court. The court had previously pulled up municipal authorities over deteriorating air quality and failure to regulate fireworks during major festivals, imposing strict prohibitions against bursting firecrackers in public spaces, common areas, and parks.

As part of its compliance measures, the court suggested that civic bodies enlist prominent public figures to champion anti-pollution awareness campaigns on a pro-bono basis. Following these observations, the BMC roped in multiple celebrities to record public service announcements.

Despite the broader campaign moving forward, the capitulation over Mirza's video highlights the sensitive intersection of civic enforcement, environmental litigation, and cultural politics surrounding seasonal celebrations in the metropolis.