‘FIRECRACKERS CAN CURE DISEASES’: BJP MLA Papia Adhikari’s Remark Amid Post-Diwali Pollution Sparks Row
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KOLKATA:BJP MLA Papia Adhikari has sparked controversy after claiming that bursting firecrackers could cure several diseases while inaugurating a Kali Puja pandal in Kolkata.
Her remarks came amid concerns over the health hazards of firecracker emissions and worsening air quality following Diwali celebrations.
WHAT SHE SAID
Speaking at a Kali Puja programme in her Tollygunge constituency on Saturday evening, Adhikari said:
“Baji phatale oshukh-bishukh chole jay.”
“We will burst firecrackers as per the directives issued by the police. And you know, bursting firecrackers also helps in curing many diseases.”
“You will see that bursting firecrackers will cure several diseases.”
A loud firecracker burst in front of her while she was speaking. The video of her speech went viral on social media.
Her remarks came days after West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari backed bursting firecrackers during Kali Puja and Diwali, while urging people to use green crackers and follow noise pollution regulations.
Adhikari said:
“Our Chief Minister has said that we will burst firecrackers. How can Kali Puja be complete without firecrackers? We will definitely burst firecrackers. However, we will follow the guidelines by the police.”
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had earlier said:
“People will celebrate a little during Diwali and burst green crackers, what is the problem with that? Actually, some people are having a problem because there has been such a Sanatan awakening.”
Her remarks drew criticism and online mockery.
Actress Sreelekha Mitra questioned the claim and asked for a list of diseases that firecrackers could supposedly cure.
Social media users responded with sarcastic comments.
Even BJP MLA Roopa Ganguly criticised noise pollution caused by loud crackers.
Following the controversy, Papia Adhikari clarified her statement.
Speaking to media, she said: “This was an old saying of our ancestors. Actually this is festival of lights, festival of lighting diyas, to eradicate social evils.”
“Now science has advanced so much, this talk is not appropriate now.”
“If anyone is hurt, I apologise. I can take back my words. Consider it withdrawn.”
She also said the media had misrepresented her remarks.
FACT CHECK: NO SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that bursting firecrackers can cure diseases.
On the contrary, doctors say firecracker smoke releases particulate matter and other harmful pollutants that aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD, besides causing irritation in eyes and throat.
Loud firecrackers also contribute to noise pollution, potentially affecting hearing, sleep and overall well-being.
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