Firecrackers Can Cure Diseases? BJP MLA’s Remark Sparks Online Mockery
Firecrackers Can Cure Diseases? BJP MLA’s Remark Sparks Online Mockery
A statement by West Bengal BJP MLA Papiya Adhikari has sparked widespread criticism after she claimed that bursting firecrackers could cure several diseases. Social media responded with sarcasm, memes and political satire.
What did the BJP MLA say?
On 7 November 2026, Papiya Adhikari, BJP MLA from Tollygunge in West Bengal, attended a Kali Puja pandal inauguration in her constituency.
While she was addressing the gathering, a firecracker exploded nearby. Continuing her speech, she reportedly said:
“You will see that bursting firecrackers will cure several diseases.”
She also questioned how Kali Puja could be complete without firecrackers, while saying that police guidelines would be followed.
Her remarks quickly attracted attention, particularly amid growing concerns about air pollution following Diwali and Kali Puja celebrations.
What happened after the controversy?
On 9 November, Adhikari attempted to explain her statement.
She referred to traditional beliefs passed down by previous generations, suggesting that rituals, lighting lamps and earlier practices were associated with removing germs and social evils.
She also acknowledged that such claims were no longer appropriate given scientific advancements.
She apologised to anyone offended and said she was willing to withdraw her statement.
What does science actually say?
The scientific evidence points in the opposite direction.
A Central Pollution Control Board report on the health impact of firecrackers documents the release of particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and various metallic compounds.
Exposure can cause:
- Eye and respiratory irritation.
- Breathing difficulties.
- Worsening asthma and bronchitis.
- Aggravation of existing heart and lung conditions.
- Greater health risks for children, older people and those with respiratory illnesses.
Fireworks are not a recognised medical treatment for infections or respiratory diseases.
And then came the social media response
The viral graphic combines the MLA’s statement with a second, sharply worded political satire directed at BJP supporters.
The second quote is an expression of political opinion, not a scientific conclusion or independently verified statement.
The episode has become another example of how political statements can quickly turn into internet memes, particularly when they collide with scientific evidence and public-health concerns.
The bigger question
Religious traditions and celebrations deserve respect. But claims about health and medicine must be based on scientific evidence.
People already dealing with severe air pollution deserve responsible public communication, not misleading health claims.
Celebrate festivals. Respect traditions. But don’t turn firecrackers into medicine.
