Bombay HC Maintains Ban On PoP Idol Immersion In Natural Water Bodies

The Bombay High Court has decided to continue its interim order restricting the immersion of Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesh idols in natural water bodies until a final verdict is delivered.

This decision was made after a prolonged hearing on a batch of petitions concerning PoP idols. A bench of Justices Ajay Gadkari and Kamal Khata reserved its verdict, stating that the interim order would remain in force until the final judgment is pronounced.

The interim order, which was initially imposed on June 9, 2025, lifted the restriction on the manufacture and sale of PoP idols after the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) changed its earlier stand. However, the court made it clear that the immersion of PoP idols in natural water bodies would not be allowed without its permission.

During the hearing, advocate Ronita Bhattacharyya argued that the Maharashtra government's policy allowing idols up to six feet to be immersed in artificial ponds and larger idols in natural water bodies had failed. She submitted photographs from last year's immersion to show that even PoP idols measuring up to six feet had been immersed in natural water bodies despite the court's directions and the government policy.

Bhattacharyya also rejected claims that there was no scientific study establishing that PoP was harmful or a pollutant. She said a committee had been formed following the court's directions and included scientists and experts, including those from the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI).

The government's policy, introduced last year, expired in March this year. The government has sought to implement the same policy again. However, the court's decision to continue the interim order means that devotees will not be able to immerse PoP idols in natural water bodies without the court's permission.

The court's verdict is expected to have significant implications for the environment and the celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra. The use of PoP idols has been a contentious issue, with many arguing that they cause harm to the environment and water bodies.

The Maharashtra government's policy on PoP idols has been criticized by environmental activists, who argue that it is ineffective and allows for the continued use of harmful materials. The court's decision to continue the interim order is seen as a victory for environmental activists, who have been advocating for a ban on PoP idols.

In conclusion, the Bombay High Court's decision to continue the interim order restricting the immersion of PoP idols in natural water bodies is a significant development in the ongoing debate over the use of these idols. The final verdict is expected to have far-reaching implications for the environment and the celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra.

The court's decision highlights the need for a more effective policy on PoP idols, one that prioritizes the protection of the environment and water bodies. As the state government seeks to implement its policy again, it must take into account the concerns of environmental activists and the court's directives.

Ultimately, the court's verdict will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Maharashtra and ensuring that they are conducted in an environmentally sustainable manner.