Bombay High Court Asks BMC To Re-Upload Dia Mirza's Diwali Video, Expresses Displeasure Over Controversy

The Bombay High Court has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to upload Bollywood actress Dia Mirza's video advocating an eco-friendly and firecracker-free Diwali. The court expressed its disappointment over the removal of the video and said that the environment should not be associated with religion and politics.

"We are very disappointed over this incident. We are very concerned with what the Comments say," said Justice Girish Kulkarni and Justice Neela Gokhale.

Why was Dia Mirza's video removed?

• The controversy started when the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation advocated an awareness campaign to encourage citizens to celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly manner.
• As part of the campaign, several celebrities, such as Dia Mirza, Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane were invited by the city to raise awareness through social media.
• Mirza called upon people to not burst firecrackers on public roads and follow the directions of the Bombay High Court.
• However, the Mumbai BJP chief (Ameet Satam) took issue with Mirza's involvement in the campaign. Several others like Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde took issue as well and the video was removed from the BMC social media pages.

Bombay High Court Disappointed

• While hearing a suo motu PIL related to noise and environmental pollution, the High Court expressed its disatisfaction over the removal.
• "The entire campaign was aimed at bringing awareness to the public to protect our environment. Why have you unnecessarily created a controversy over a campaign aimed at helping society?" the judges said.
• "Ms Mirza participated in the campaign as per our previous directions. There is absolutely no need to target her."
• The bench highlighted the secular values of India saying that every individual deserves to be respected regardless of their religion, caste or community. Everyone breathes the same air so it's everyone's duty to protect the environment.

High Court Orders Video To Be Reuploaded

The High Court ordered the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to reupload Mirza's video as they were disappointed that her video was removed due to political comments.

"We are very concerned with the fact that Mumbai is a city that thrives on unity. Everyone should work together and respect each other. Public figures shouldn't make unnecessary comments," the judges said.

"Environmental awareness campaigns should be a positive campaign that brings everyone together."

Firecracker Rules Apply All Year Round

• The High Court also explained that their firecracker rules do not just apply to Diwali. The aim is to reduce air and noise pollution throughout the year.
• Firecrackers are often used during weddings, religious processions, election celebrations and cricket wins. So it can't be seen as an issue for one festival or community.
• "We must respect the rules around not bursting firecrackers on public roads. Our aim is to protect peoples health."

Environmental Awareness Should Come First

• The High Court's involvement has highlighted the importance of raising awareness around the environment, being able to participate in public campaigns and the values of India's constitution.
• By asking the BMC to reupload Mirza's video the High Court has highlighted the fact that it's everyone's duty to protect our environment. This incident has sparked a conversation around the role of celebrities, political comments and social responsibility during big festivals.
• The High Court has highlighted that environmental campaigns should bring people together and celebrate responsibly.