Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Papia Adhikari has sparked controversy after claiming that bursting firecrackers can cure several diseases during a Kali Puja event in Kolkata’s Tollygunge.
Adhikari, who represents the Tollygunge Assembly constituency, made the remark while addressing a gathering at a community Kali Puja pandal. As she spoke into a microphone, a firecracker went off loudly nearby.
“You will see that bursting firecrackers will cure many illnesses,” she told the crowd.
She also referred to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s recent remarks on the use of firecrackers during Kali Puja and Diwali.
“Our honourable Chief Minister has said that crackers will be burst during Kali Puja. How can Kali Puja be complete without firecrackers? We will definitely burst them, but we will follow the guidelines issued by the police,” she said.
Chief Minister urges use of green crackers
Papia Adhikari’s comments came days after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said people could burst firecrackers during Kali Puja and Diwali, while urging them to use eco-friendly or green crackers and follow noise pollution regulations.
The chief minister made the remarks while attending the inauguration of several Kali Puja pandals, including those at Amherst Street and Khalishani.
Firecrackers pose health risks, experts warn
Medical experts have repeatedly warned that firecracker smoke and particulate matter can worsen respiratory problems, particularly among people with asthma and existing heart conditions.
Noise from firecrackers can also affect people and animals, while emissions contribute to air pollution. The health warnings contrast with Papia Adhikari’s claim that bursting crackers can cure illnesses.
Reports from Kolkata have also highlighted violations of noise pollution rules during Diwali and Kali Puja, with residents reporting firecrackers being burst outside permitted hours.
