“I’m a Celebrity, What’s the Big Crime?”: Surat Industrialist Defends Road-Blocking Fireworks on Son’s Birthday

Surat, Gujarat: A controversy has erupted in Surat after industrialist Deepak Izardar blocked a public road to set off fireworks for his son’s birthday. Following widespread criticism, Izardar defended his actions, claiming that as a celebrity, he is being unfairly targeted. The incident has sparked calls on social media for strict action by Surat police.

The Incident

Deepak Izardar, a prominent industrialist from Dumas village, Surat, celebrated his son’s birthday by setting off fireworks on a public road, with his bodyguards and security personnel present. A video of the event went viral, leading to public outrage and debates over the perception that the wealthy enjoy “separate laws.”

When a driver in a white car honked for passage, Izardar reportedly reacted angrily. He later told the media that he stopped the car temporarily to prevent any accident, explaining that the fuel used for the fireworks could have endangered the two passengers in the car—a woman and a man.

Public Backlash and Threat Allegations

Eyewitnesses claimed that Izardar allegedly threatened people who tried to clear the road, even warning of setting fire to a car and a tank. The industrialist openly flouted the law to celebrate the birthday, attracting widespread criticism on social media.

Izardar’s Defense

Responding to the controversy, Izardar stated: “I am a celebrity. If I set off fireworks for five minutes by stopping traffic, what is the big crime?” He also emphasized the safety concern for the car passengers as a justification for briefly blocking the road.

Police Investigation

The Dumas Police Station has taken cognizance of the incident. Inspector N.V. Bharwad is leading the investigation, which continues amid intense public scrutiny. Notably, Surat is also the hometown of Gujarat Deputy CM Harsh Sanghvi, which has amplified media attention on the case.

This incident has reignited debates over the privileges of the wealthy in Surat, with citizens demanding accountability and strict enforcement of traffic and public safety laws.