BJP MLA sparks row with bizarre claim that firecrackers cure diseases

Kolkata: A bizarre claim by a BJP MLA in West Bengal that bursting firecrackers can cure various diseases has sparked controversy. Papiya Adhikari, the party's Tollygunge MLA, made the remarks during Kali Puja celebrations, despite repeated warnings about the harmful effects of firecracker smoke and noise.

Adhikari was attending the inauguration of a Kali Puja pandal in Tollygunge when a firecracker exploded nearby with a loud bang as she was speaking into a microphone. Following the incident, she claimed that bursting firecrackers could help cure several diseases. She also questioned how Kali Puja celebrations could be complete without firecrackers. However, she reminded people to follow the guidelines issued by the police and administration while bursting them.

As her remarks triggered widespread criticism, the MLA issued a clarification on Sunday. She claimed that she had meant that smoke from firecrackers could destroy disease-causing germs carried through the air.

However, health experts and environmental activists have dismissed the claim as scientifically unfounded. They pointed out that smoke and particulate matter released by firecrackers only increase air pollution. Such pollution can cause serious problems for people suffering from respiratory conditions such as asthma. The claim that firecracker smoke destroys germs is far from reality, they added.

The controversy has emerged shortly after Suvendu Adhikari called for the use of only environment-friendly green firecrackers during celebrations and urged people to comply with noise pollution regulations. The remarks by a BJP legislator have now put the party in an awkward position.