The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken down a video featuring actress Dia Mirza from its pollution-free Diwali initiative after objections were raised by Ameet Satam, the president of Mumbai’s BJP. This action has sparked a political controversy, as reported. The BMC had previously encouraged citizens to refrain from bursting firecrackers in light of a directive from the Bombay High Court, which aimed to address the escalating air pollution in Mumbai.

Mirza’s video, which called for a reduction in noise and air pollution during the festival, was removed on Sunday. Despite this, videos from other celebrities, including Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad, and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, remained accessible on the BMC’s social media platforms.

According to reports, Satam’s objection was made public when he tagged the BMC’s official account on X, expressing his disapproval of Mirza’s involvement. He stated, “We don’t need lessons on how to celebrate #Diwali from @deespeak. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture.” Following his post, the BMC, under the leadership of Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide, promptly removed the video.

Reactions from Political Figures

In response to the video’s removal, BMC Mayor Ritu Tawde commented that Mirza has historically aligned herself with divisive forces and has previously criticised Prime Minister Modi regarding the NEET exam issue. Tawde further alleged that Mirza has consistently demonstrated anti-Hindu sentiments and announced that she has been blacklisted by the BMC.

Mirza reacted to the situation on social media, stating, “Koi paise nahi liye hain. Bhalai ka zamana hee nahi raha,” which translates to her having not received any payment from the BMC for the campaign and lamenting the lack of goodness in the current era. The BMC’s original post accompanying her video had reiterated the High Court’s prohibition on bursting firecrackers in public areas.

Opposition leaders have voiced their criticism of the BMC’s decision to remove the video. Kishori Pednekar, a spokesperson for Shiv Sena (UBT) and former mayor, questioned whether the civic administration had become subservient to the BJP and its Mumbai president. She accused Satam of overstepping his bounds and interfering in the civic body’s operations.

Broader Implications and Responses

Yashwant Killedar, a corporator from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, also condemned Satam’s actions, suggesting that if he is so fond of firecrackers, BJP officials should set off as many as they wish outside his residence. Killedar emphasised that Diwali can be celebrated meaningfully with minimal lighting, questioning the BJP’s endorsement of what he termed “hypocritical Hindutva” that promotes firecracker use in the name of religion.

BJP minister Nitesh Rane remarked that while Mirza tweeted about Diwali, she does not offer similar guidance during other religious festivals such as Eid or Muharram. He asserted that individuals like her are opposed to the Sanatan Hindu religion and indicated that he would discuss the matter with Chief Minister Fadnavis to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Union minister Ramdas Athawale commented on the situation by stating that Dia Mirza, being part of the Muslim community, should not have her participation in the campaign politicised. He reiterated that the Indian Constitution grants all religions the right to celebrate their festivals, while also acknowledging the need to address pollution concerns during such celebrations.

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