West Bengal BJP MLA Papia Adhikari has sparked controversy after claiming that bursting firecrackers can cure illnesses, despite Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari urging people to use green and environment-friendly fireworks during Kali Puja celebrations.

According to The Indian Express, Papia, who represents the Tollygunj Assembly constituency in Kolkata, made the remarks on Saturday while addressing the unveiling ceremony of a Kali Puja idol at a community puja pandal in the city.

“We will burst crackers. You (people) will see crackers cure many illnesses,” she said.

She also referred to the chief minister's instructions, saying firecrackers could be used during Kali Puja but must comply with government restrictions and police guidelines.

“Our honourable Chief Minister has said crackers will be burst during the Kali Puja festival, but that should follow the rules and restrictions framed by the government. Crackers should be used as per the guidelines made by police stations. But it's a fact that crackers can cure illnesses,” she added.

Firecrackers were being set off with loud bangs as she delivered her speech at the ceremony in the Tollygunj area.

Over the past few days, the chief minister has attended idol-unveiling programmes at several Kali Puja pandals in Kolkata and other districts, urging people to use fireworks in compliance with regulations on noise pollution.