The Bombay High Court on Tuesday directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to re-upload actor Dia Mirza’s video promoting an environmentally friendly and firecracker-free Diwali, expressing strong displeasure over the objections that led to its removal.
A Division Bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale criticised the controversy surrounding the awareness campaign, observing that an initiative intended to address environmental concerns should not have been drawn into unrelated disputes.
The video was removed on Monday following objections from certain BJP leaders and Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde.
Court Questions Objections to Environmental Campaign
The Bench expressed concern over the attitude of those who opposed the video, particularly individuals holding public positions. It observed that the controversy reflected a narrow approach towards an initiative aimed at educating people about air and noise pollution.
The judges said the BMC commissioner had acted appropriately in selecting celebrities to promote environmental awareness and that introducing unrelated issues into the campaign was unfortunate.
The court also questioned why the civic body had removed Mirza’s video in response to the objections, making it clear that the clip should be restored.
High Court Stresses Secular Values and Mutual Respect
Addressing the controversy, the Bench emphasised that every individual deserves respect regardless of religion, caste or creed. It said the Constitution expects citizens to uphold secular values and maintain mutual respect within society.
The judges observed that Mumbai’s social fabric depends on unity and a shared sense of belonging, which should not be undermined by irresponsible public remarks.
The court also pointed out that environmental concerns affect everyone equally, irrespective of religious or caste identities.
Referring to those who had criticised the campaign, the Bench noted that it had not seen any of them release videos promoting environmental awareness.
It expressed disappointment that public representatives had objected to a campaign addressing pollution instead of contributing to its message.
BMC Asked to Reinstate Deleted Video
The High Court said it was deeply hurt by the controversy and found the conduct of those holding public office particularly concerning.
While supporting the BMC commissioner’s decision to involve celebrities in the awareness initiative, the Bench made clear that the civic body should not have withdrawn Mirza’s video merely because objections had been raised.
The court ultimately directed the BMC to restore the deleted clip, reiterating that environmental awareness should not be overshadowed by disputes unrelated to the campaign.
