No Plaster of Paris Idols: Bombay HC Orders Strict Ban Enforcement

The Bombay High Court has upheld the ban on the making and immersion of Plaster of Paris (POP) idols ahead of the Maghi Ganapati festival in Maharashtra. The Court directed local authorities to enforce the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines that prohibit the use of POP idols to prevent water pollution.

Key Court Directives

A Bench comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Bharati Dangre instructed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), six other municipal corporations, and four municipal councils in Maharashtra to strictly adhere to the CPCB guidelines.

“Respondents 3-19 corporations shall ensure that clause 2 of the revised CPCB guidelines, which bans the making and immersion of POP idols, is followed in letter and spirit,” the Court ruled.

The Court denied interim relief to idol makers opposing the ban and stated that the matter will be heard again on March 20, 2025.

Why the Ban?

The CPCB imposed the Plaster of Paris idol ban due to its harmful effects on water bodies. POP idols:

• Do not dissolve easily, leading to water pollution.
• Release toxic chemicals, harming aquatic life.
• Degrade water quality, impacting the ecosystem and public health.

The Maghi Ganapati festival, celebrated on February 1, involves the traditional making and immersion of Lord Ganapati idols, a practice that contributes to pollution when non-biodegradable materials are used.

Impact of the Ban

• Local authorities must prevent POP idol production and immersion.
• Idol makers must switch to eco-friendly materials.
• Devotees may have to adapt to using clay or other biodegradable alternatives.

The Court’s decision reinforces environmental sustainability while balancing religious traditions.

Next Hearing

• The Court will review the enforcement of the ban on March 20, 2025.
• Further arguments from idol makers and petitioners will be considered.