The Bombay High Court expressed its disquiet regarding the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) choice to remove a pollution-free Diwali campaign video featuring actress Dia Mirza. The court has instructed the civic body to restore the video, which had been taken down following objections from Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde and BJP chief Ameet Satam. They labelled the inclusion of Mirza as “unfortunate” and claimed it had been misrepresented.

During the proceedings, Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale remarked that reinstating the campaign would help “restore the confidence of people in the constitution.” They emphasised the importance of unity in Mumbai and stated that the integrity of public sentiment should not be compromised by unfounded remarks.

The court also highlighted its concern over comments directed at celebrities involved in the BMC’s awareness campaign, which aimed to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of firecrackers on air and noise pollution. The judges noted that the BMC’s initiative was commendable and that it conveyed a message of unity.

Details of the Campaign and Its Controversy

The BMC had enlisted several well-known figures, including Mirza, Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad, and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, to participate in the campaign. The initiative sought to educate the public on the environmental hazards associated with firecrackers and to encourage citizens to minimise pollution during the Diwali festivities. While Mirza’s video was removed on Sunday, the other celebrities’ videos remained accessible on the BMC’s social media platforms.

The removal of Mirza’s video sparked a political uproar, particularly after Ameet Satam questioned her involvement and suggested that she was not qualified to instruct others on celebrating Diwali. In a post on X, Satam stated, “We don’t need lessons on how to celebrate Diwali… Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture.”

Following Satam’s remarks, the BMC swiftly removed the video without providing any official explanation. Mayor Tawde supported the decision, accusing Mirza of opposing Hindutva, despite the campaign’s focus on public health and environmental concerns.

Response from Dia Mirza and Political Reactions

In response to the controversy, Dia Mirza defended her role in the awareness campaign, questioning the rationale behind the objections to her video. She stated, “Why should anyone be critical of a video that the Honourable Bombay High Court and BMC have made me record in public interest? Air Pollution is an area of concern and all efforts to reduce pollution should be welcomed because it’s a matter of public health,” she told ANI.

The situation has prompted further political discourse, with BJP officials alleging that Hindu festivals are being unfairly targeted under the guise of environmental protection. Meanwhile, opposition leaders have raised concerns about whether the BMC capitulated to political pressure by removing Mirza’s video.

The Bombay High Court’s intervention underscores the ongoing tensions between public health initiatives and political sentiments, particularly in a diverse and secular society like India. The court’s directive to restore the video reflects a commitment to uphold constitutional values and promote unity among citizens, regardless of their backgrounds.

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