Controversy Erupts Over Municipal Campaign

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has removed an anti-firecracker public awareness video featuring actor Dia Mirza from its official social media platforms, sparking a significant political debate across Mumbai. The civic body's decision to pull down the campaign material came hours after sharp objections were raised by senior political figures.

The public service announcement, which featured the 44-year-old actor urging citizens to refrain from bursting firecrackers during Diwali, was originally commissioned in response to a directive from the Bombay High Court. The court had previously criticized municipal authorities over escalating air pollution levels and a lack of regulatory enforcement during festive periods.

Despite the removal of Mirza's video, similar public service messages featuring other prominent personalities—including actor Madhuri Dixit, cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, and Marathi actor Nishigandha Wad—continue to remain active on the civic body's digital channels.

Political Fallout and Official Stance

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde strongly defended the removal, asserting that the decision was rooted in the actor's past public positions rather than her religious identity.

"It is not to do with any religion. She has always taken an anti-Hindu and anti-government stand. That is the reason for opposing her, not her religion. We believe in secularism," Tawde stated, adding that Mirza engages in "selective propaganda."

The Mayor also attributed the release of the video to a "miscommunication from the administration," noting that the BMC's public relations department had not consulted elected representatives prior to publication. She confirmed plans to discuss the matter with the BMC Commissioner to prevent similar administrative oversights in the future.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale weighed in on the controversy, emphasizing the constitutional rights of individuals while noting that the dispute transcends religious lines.

"India is a country where the Constitution given by Dr BR Ambedkar grants every religion the right to celebrate its festivals," Athawale remarked.

As the civic administration faces mounting questions regarding its communication protocols and the selective removal of campaign content, the incident highlights the delicate intersection of judicial mandates, public health campaigns, and local political dynamics in Mumbai.