Don't Waste Money, Celebs Must Do Anti-Fireworks Campaign For Free: Bombay High Court

The Bombay High Court addressed the Maharashtra Government regarding a proposed public awareness campaign against bursting firecrackers. A division bench expressed displeasure upon learning that Bollywood actors expected payment for participating in the social cause, stating that public money should not be wasted on hiring celebrities.

The judges noted that celebrities readily attend events hosted by the Mumbai Police, such as the annual Umang program, and questioned why they would not dedicate a short amount of time for free to support environmental protection. The court suggested that if Bollywood actors refused to participate without compensation, authorities should instead approach Marathi actors willing to contribute for free.

During the proceedings, the court appreciated the awareness efforts undertaken by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, which included newspaper advertisements, television commercials, and social media campaigns. The bench also highlighted school outreach programs where students pledged against using firecrackers, and instructed authorities to focus awareness efforts on slum areas where violations often occur late into the night.

Not yet reported: The final outcome or directives issued by the court after the November 25 hearing are not reported.