Bombay High Court Seeks Ban on Plaster of Paris Idols

The Bombay High Court has requested the Maharashtra government to respond to a plea advocating a complete ban on Plaster of Paris idols due to their harmful environmental impact when immersed in water. The Central Pollution Control Board had previously issued guidelines against PoP idols, and the plea seeks their full implementation.

The Bombay High Court has directed the Maharashtra government to respond to a plea demanding a complete ban on the use of Plaster of Paris (PoP) for religious idols, specifically those immersed in water during festivals.

This directive gains significance ahead of the popular Ganesh festival, putting immediate pressure on the state to address environmental concerns.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) had issued ''Revised Guidelines for Idol Immersion'' on May 12, 2020, calling for a ban on PoP idols due to severe water pollution caused by their immersion.

The public interest litigation, brought forward by citizens and clay idol makers, argues that these guidelines have not been fully implemented in Maharashtra.

A bench consisting of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar has issued notice to the state for a response.

Advocate Ronita Bhattacharya, representing the petitioners, claimed that despite the CPCB's ban effective from 2021, the state has delayed its implementation to appease manufacturers of PoP idols.

The CPCB has recommended the use of eco-friendly idols made from natural clay and biodegradable materials, the plea noted.

Additionally, the plea seeks the formation of district-level committees for regular checks to ensure the effective implementation of the revised guidelines.

The court has scheduled the matter for hearing on August 28, in light of the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival in September.