The Bombay High Court on Dia Mirza’s Diwali video has raised serious questions about the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s decision to remove the actor’s pollution-awareness campaign message.
On Tuesday, November 3, the High Court said it was “disturbed” by the civic body’s decision. The court also stressed that India is a secular country.
The controversy began after the BMC removed a video featuring Dia Mirza from its pollution-free Diwali campaign. The actor had urged Mumbai residents to avoid firecrackers and reduce air and noise pollution during the festival.
However, the video disappeared from the BMC’s social media platforms after Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam objected to her participation. The decision soon triggered criticism from opposition leaders and questions about the civic body’s independence.
Why Did the BMC Remove Dia Mirza’s Video?
The BMC launched its environment-friendly Diwali campaign to encourage residents to celebrate the festival while reducing pollution.
As part of the initiative, the civic body invited several public figures to record awareness messages. These included actors Dia Mirza, Madhuri Dixit and Nishigandha Wad, along with cricketer Ajinkya Rahane.
Mirza appealed to citizens to protect public health and avoid excessive noise and air pollution. Her message also referred to the Bombay High Court’s directions on firecracker use in public spaces.
However, Ameet Satam objected to her inclusion in the campaign. In a post on X, he said people did not need lessons on celebrating Diwali from the actor and referred to India’s cultural traditions.
Soon afterwards, the BMC removed Mirza’s video from its social media accounts. Meanwhile, videos featuring other celebrities remained online. This selective removal raised questions about the civic body’s decision.
Mumbai Mayor Also Criticises Dia Mirza
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde also criticised the actor’s participation in the campaign.
Tawde said Mirza did not need to tell Hindus how to celebrate Diwali. She also accused the actor of taking positions against Hindu interests and said the BMC should not have included her without consulting the elected leadership.
The mayor’s remarks added to the controversy. Meanwhile, several opposition leaders questioned why the BMC removed Mirza’s video but retained similar messages from other public figures.
Some political representatives also argued that a civic body’s public-health campaign should not depend on political objections.
