Bombay High Court Seeks Clarification on POP Ganesh Idol Immersions

The Bombay High Court is hearing petitions challenging the immersion of over 5-feet-tall Plaster of Paris (POP) Ganesh idols in natural water bodies.

The petitioners, including environmental groups, argue that this move contradicts previous court orders and Central Pollution Control Guidelines, as POPs idols severely harm aquatic ecosystems. The Court noted the State had previously assured the use of artificial tanks and asked the Maharashtra government to clarify its changed policy.

The issue is significant ahead of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.  The Court has sought an explanation from the state government on how the new approach complies with environmental laws.