The controversy surrounding actor Dia Mirza's Diwali firecracker awareness video continues, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) yet to restore the deleted clip despite the Bombay High Court's direction. The video was part of the civic body's campaign encouraging citizens to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali and avoid activities that contribute to air and noise pollution.
On November 5, the civic body had still not re-uploaded the video, even though the High Court had expressed strong displeasure over its removal and asked the BMC to restore it. The administration has said that it received the court order and that its legal department would examine the directions before a final decision is taken.
The issue has now developed into a wider debate involving the judiciary, political representatives and the municipal administration.
1. Why Was Dia Mirza's Diwali Video Removed?
The controversy began after the BMC included Dia Mirza in its public awareness campaign for an environmentally friendly Diwali. The campaign encouraged people to avoid bursting firecrackers, particularly on public roads, and highlighted the harmful effects of air and noise pollution.
Several public figures participated in the initiative, including actors Madhuri Dixit and Nishigandha Wad, along with cricketer Ajinkya Rahane.
However, Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam objected to Dia Mirza's inclusion in the campaign. He criticised appeals against firecrackers and questioned the message being communicated to citizens about celebrating Diwali.
Following the objections, the BMC removed Mirza's video from its official social media platforms on Sunday night. The videos featuring other celebrities, including Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad and Ajinkya Rahane, continued to remain available.
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde subsequently defended the civic body's decision and reportedly described Mirza as "anti-Hindu". Her remarks added another dimension to the controversy, which had initially centred on an environmental awareness campaign.
2. Bombay High Court Expresses Strong Displeasure
The removal of the video prompted the Bombay High Court to take suo motu cognisance of the controversy while hearing matters related to festival noise and air pollution.
On Tuesday, November 3, a bench comprising Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale expressed what it described as "deep pain and displeasure" over the developments.
The court questioned why an awareness initiative aimed at protecting the environment had been given a political or religious colour. It also expressed concern over comments directed at celebrities who had participated in a public cause.
The bench observed that the BMC's campaign was intended to create awareness about the harmful effects of firecrackers and promote a sense of togetherness. It said the removal of Mirza's video was unfortunate and suggested that the civic body restore the clip.
The court also emphasised that environmental protection was a collective responsibility. People from every religion and community breathe the same air, making pollution a concern that affects everyone.
It further noted that the BMC had taken effective steps by involving public figures in its awareness campaign and that the selection of a particular celebrity should not become a matter of unnecessary controversy.
The court's observations were particularly significant because the campaign itself followed earlier judicial directions concerning pollution and public awareness.
3. BMC Awaits Legal Opinion Before Restoring the Video
Despite the High Court's direction, the video had not been restored by November 5.
According to PTI, BMC officials had initially told journalists that they were waiting to receive the court order before deciding on the next step. A senior civic official later confirmed that the administration received the order late on Wednesday evening.
The civic body's legal department is expected to examine the directions and provide its opinion. Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide will take the final decision based on that assessment.
The BMC has not issued an official statement announcing the restoration of the video.
The delay has raised questions about the implementation of the court's direction, particularly because the bench had specifically suggested that the deleted clip be uploaded again.
Political Debate Reaches BMC Standing Committee
The controversy has also become a subject of discussion within the municipal corporation.
During a Standing Committee meeting, Congress group leader Ashraf Azmi raised questions about the removal of Mirza's video from the BMC's official social media accounts.
He questioned who had authorised the deletion and whether the civic body could remove public awareness content simply because political representatives objected to it.
The discussion reportedly led to a verbal exchange between members of the ruling side and the Opposition.
The issue has therefore moved beyond the original social media controversy, with questions being raised about administrative responsibility, political interference and the management of official civic communication.
Dia Mirza's Environmental Work
Dia Mirza is known not only for her acting career but also for her involvement in environmental conservation initiatives.
In 2017, she was appointed the United Nations Environment Programme's Goodwill Ambassador for India. In 2019, she was also named an Advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Over the years, she has supported campaigns related to climate change, wildlife protection, plastic pollution and environmental awareness.
Her participation in the BMC's Diwali campaign was connected to this broader environmental advocacy.
What Happens Next?
The immediate question is whether the BMC will restore Dia Mirza's video after examining the Bombay High Court's order.
The controversy has highlighted the challenges faced by public awareness campaigns when environmental messages become entangled in political disagreements.
For now, the civic administration's legal review remains the next important development. The video has not yet been restored, and the BMC's final decision is awaited.
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