Bombay High Court Orders BMC to Restore Dia Mirza’s Diwali Video After Political Controversy

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to restore an awareness video featuring Bollywood actor Dia Mirza, which promoted an environmentally friendly and firecracker-free Diwali. The court’s intervention came after the civic body removed the video from its social media platforms following objections from political leaders, triggering a controversy over the actor’s campaign.

The video was part of the BMC’s public awareness initiative encouraging citizens to celebrate Diwali without firecrackers and consider the environmental and health consequences of bursting them. However, its removal sparked criticism after several political figures questioned the campaign and made remarks targeting the actor.

During the hearing, the High Court expressed concern over attempts to give an environmental awareness initiative a religious or political dimension. It stressed that India is a secular country and that issues relating to pollution, public health and environmental protection should not be viewed through a communal lens.

The court directed the municipal corporation to put the video back on its official platforms, effectively reversing its earlier decision to take it down. The proceedings also brought attention to the responsibility of public institutions in communicating messages concerning environmental protection without being influenced by political pressure. The controversy intensified after Mumbai BJP president Ameet Satam objected to the campaign. Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde and Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane also made comments concerning the video, following which the BMC removed it from its social media accounts.

The actor’s participation in the initiative had been intended to encourage people to adopt more sustainable ways of celebrating the festival. The campaign highlighted concerns surrounding air pollution, noise levels and the potential health risks associated with firecrackers, particularly for children, elderly people and individuals with respiratory problems.

The High Court’s intervention has brought the debate over environmental awareness campaigns and political interference into focus. The case also raises broader questions about the freedom of public institutions to promote scientific and environmental concerns without such initiatives being interpreted as attacks on religious traditions. Authorities have increasingly encouraged citizens to consider alternatives that reduce pollution while maintaining the celebratory spirit of Diwali.

By ordering the restoration of the video, the Bombay High Court has reinforced the importance of addressing environmental concerns through public awareness rather than allowing political disagreements to overshadow the issue. The episode has also renewed the debate over firecracker pollution, civic responsibility and the role of public figures in promoting sustainable celebrations.