Guwahati: As Diwali draws near, local firecracker traders in Guwahati have raised concerns over social media campaigns calling for a boycott of fireworks, alleging that these movements aim to disrupt businesses and target small-scale manufacturers. The campaigns, they claim, gained traction following the untimely death of Assam’s celebrated singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg.
Speaking to the media, businessman Zeetandra Saloi, representing the city’s firecracker vendors, said while the community deeply mourns Zubeen Garg’s passing, linking the tragedy to a “silent Diwali” campaign is unfair and threatens livelihoods. “Zubeen Garg is like a god to us. We respect him deeply and will continue to do so. This Diwali, special tributes will be paid to his memory in every home,” Saloi stated.
Traders alleged that the organization Sadou Assam Ekokritiya Yuba Parishad has intimidated sellers, leading many customers to avoid purchasing fireworks out of fear. Saloi confirmed that a formal complaint has been filed at Bharalumukh Police Station against the group’s leaders — Ashish Bora, Bidyut Kalita, and Jayanta Gogoi — for disrupting lawful business activities. He further accused Bidyut Kalita of being involved in prior scams and suggested that the boycott calls may be part of a larger attempt to sabotage the firecracker industry.
Highlighting the economic impact, Saloi explained that firecracker vendors invest heavily throughout the year for production and distribution, making sudden boycotts financially devastating. The traders emphasized that while they honour Zubeen Garg’s legacy, protests that harm livelihoods cannot be condoned.
In response, Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma appealed to the public to avoid boycotting fireworks this Diwali, stressing the importance of preserving religious traditions and supporting livelihoods linked to the trade. Traders welcomed the Chief Minister’s intervention and reiterated their demand for police protection against groups attempting to instil fear and disrupt festive activities.
The controversy underscores the tension between cultural mourning and economic sustenance, with firecracker traders seeking both justice for Zubeen Garg and the safe continuation of Diwali celebrations.
