“Same Air for Everyone”: Bombay HC on Dia Mirza’s Video Row
Court expresses displeasure over objections to the actor’s eco-friendly campaign and stresses the importance of secular values
- Bombay HC directs BMC to re-upload Dia Mirza’s Diwali video.
- Court expresses deep displeasure over objections to the campaign.
- Bench stresses secular values and respect across communities.
- BMC had removed the clip following objections from BJP leaders and the Mumbai Mayor.
GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 4th Nov: The Bombay High Court has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to re-upload actor Dia Mirza’s video promoting an eco-friendly and firecracker-free Diwali, expressing deep pain and displeasure over the controversy surrounding the campaign.
A bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale criticised the objections raised against the video, describing the reaction as a reflection of the “petty mindset” of certain individuals, particularly those representing the public.
The court said it was unfortunate that a campaign intended to create awareness about environmental protection, air pollution and noise pollution had been given a different colour. It also observed that the BMC commissioner had made the right choice in selecting celebrities to spread awareness.
The video was removed on Monday following objections from some BJP leaders and Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde. The court directed the civic body to restore the clip, saying its removal should be followed by re-uploading.
Emphasising the importance of secular values, the bench said every individual deserves respect irrespective of religion, caste or creed. It noted that the Constitution expects citizens to uphold a secular spirit.
The court also said Mumbai’s strength lies in togetherness and a shared sense of belonging, which should not be disturbed by loose remarks.
Expressing its anguish, the bench observed that the issue concerned the environment, which affects everyone regardless of religion or caste. It questioned why those who criticised the campaign had not themselves taken initiatives to spread environmental awareness.
The court further remarked that such conduct was not expected from people holding public positions and said the BMC should not have removed the video in the first place.
