Now Reading: Bombay HC extends PoP idol immersion ban until final verdict
-
01
Bombay HC extends PoP idol immersion ban until final verdict
The Bombay High Court on Friday extended its interim ban on immersing Plaster of Paris Ganesh idols in natural water bodies until it delivers its final verdict. A bench of Justices Ajay…
The Story in Brief
The Bombay High Court on Friday extended its interim ban on immersing Plaster of Paris Ganesh idols in natural water bodies until it delivers its final verdict. A bench of Justices Ajay Gadkari and Kamal Khata reserved judgment after hearing petitions for and against PoP idols. The court had lifted the ban on manufacture and sale last June, after the Central Pollution Control Board said its earlier guidelines were only advisory, but kept restrictions on immersion without its permission.
Separately, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board has begun enforcement in Dharwad district ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi. It has banned the making and sale of PoP idols and urged eco-friendly celebrations, citing pollution of waterbodies under the Water Act. The board warned of legal action against violators.
The Indian Opinion
Claims that a total PoP ban hurts artisans and that a partial policy works equally ignore the evidence. Last year, even idols under six feet ended up in natural water bodies despite official rules. No one disputes that lakhs of PoP idols overwhelm artificial ponds. The real test is whether the state can enforce a workable alternative, and keep its promise of eco-friendly festivals, before the court rules.
Sources (3): deccanherald.com, freepressjournal.in, timesofindia.indiatimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 3 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 3 sources.
