Mumbai: The Bombay High Court has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to restore actor Dia Mirza’s video appeal for a pollution-free Diwali after expressing displeasure over its removal from the civic body’s social media platforms.
The court described the BMC’s decision as “unfortunate” and said no person should be isolated from a festival celebrated in the country. It also observed that the festival is for everyone to celebrate.
The intervention came after the civic body removed Mirza’s video from its eco-friendly Diwali campaign following objections from Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam. The video urged citizens to avoid firecrackers and remain mindful of air and noise pollution.
What Did Bombay High Court Say About Dia Mirza’s Diwali Video?
While hearing a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL), the Bombay High Court said it was disturbed by comments made against celebrities who had participated in public-awareness initiatives.
The court observed that if any celebrity’s goodwill message had been removed from the corporation’s social media platforms, it would be appropriate to restore it.
It further said, “No person can be isolated from any festival being celebrated in this country.”
The court also expressed concern that the removal had taken place without considering the intention behind the campaign and the spirit of its earlier orders.
Why Did BMC Remove Dia Mirza’s Video?
The BMC had roped in several public figures for its campaign encouraging people to celebrate an environmentally conscious Diwali. Apart from Dia Mirza, the campaign featured actors Madhuri Dixit and Nishigandha Wad, as well as cricketer Ajinkya Rahane.
Mirza’s video, which called for avoiding firecrackers and reducing noise and air pollution, was removed from the civic body’s social media accounts on Sunday.
The move followed an objection by Satam, who wrote on X that people did not need lessons on celebrating Diwali from the actor, adding that traditions were deeply rooted in culture.
Satam subsequently made further remarks against those opposing firecrackers, linking such appeals to what he described as anti-India forces.
While Mirza’s video was taken down, other celebrity appeals from the same campaign continued to remain available on the BMC’s social media platforms.
What Did Dia Mirza Say After The Video Was Taken Down?
Responding to the controversy, Mirza said her video had been recorded in the interest of public awareness and was intended to encourage healthier and more mindful celebrations.
She maintained that air pollution was a public-health concern and that every effort to reduce it should be welcomed.
The actor also questioned why anyone would object to a message recorded at the request of the Bombay High Court and the BMC.
The High Court’s latest direction has brought the focus back to the civic body’s pollution-awareness campaign and its appeal to citizens to celebrate Diwali while being mindful of the environment.
