HC calls for strict compliance with ban on PoP idols ahead of Maghi Ganesh Utsav in Maharashtra

Bombay High Court orders interim ban on PoP idols, directs strict compliance with CPCB guidelines for eco-friendly alternatives.

The Bombay High Court on Thursday (January 30, 2025) passed an interim order against idols made of plaster of paris (PoP) and their immersion in waterbodies, and called for strict compliance with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines.

Responding to a petition filed by Rohit Joshi and nine clay-based and small-scale idol craftsmen who raised concerns that PoP-based idols are still available in the market, a Division Bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Bharati Dangre directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and all other civic bodies in Maharashtra to ensure that guidelines are followed ahead of the Maghi Ganesh festival scheduled on February 1 and 2.   

On May 12, 2020, the CPCB had issued guidelines banning the manufacture, sale, and immersion of idols made of PoP and encouraged the idol makers to use natural, biodegradable, and eco-friendly raw materials for making idols. 

Advocate Ronita Bhattacharya for the petitioners submitted to the court that despite orders, PoP idols are still being made and sold. Responding to Ms. Bhattacharya, BMC counsel Milind Sathe said that the civic body has been taking steps to implement the CPCB’s revised guidelines. 

Appearing for the association of idol makers, advocate S.M. Gorwadkar, appealed to the Bench not to issue any adverse order that would deprive the livelihood of many idol makers. The court, however, refused to entertain their plea and observed, “It is directed that respondent corporations shall ensure that the revised CPCB guidelines, which ban the making of PoP idols, shall be adhered to strictly in letter and spirit henceforth.” The matter is listed for further hearing on March 20.