Mumbai: A political controversy has erupted in Mumbai over the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Diwali awareness campaign against firecrackers. Following objections from the BJP and its allies, the civic body removed actor Dia Mirza’s video message from its official social media accounts.
The campaign was launched to raise awareness about air pollution in Mumbai and promote compliance with directions issued by the Bombay High Court.
In her video message, Dia Mirza appealed against bursting firecrackers during Diwali. However, the message drew criticism from political leaders, leading to demands and objections over the campaign.
Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC also commented on the controversy. She said Diwali is a festival of lights and carries a deep cultural identity. She added that nobody was encouraging pollution, but Mumbai residents did not need outside advice on how to celebrate the festival.
Meanwhile, videos featuring other public figures from the same BMC campaign remain available on the civic body’s social media pages. These include messages by actor Madhuri Dixit, Marathi artist Nishigandha Wad and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane.
The removal of Dia Mirza’s video, while the other campaign messages remain online, has brought the civic body’s awareness initiative into the centre of a political debate.
