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Bombay High Court Lifts Ban on PoP Ganpati Idols, Bars Immersion in Natural Waters

The court gave the state three weeks to set eco-friendly immersion guidelines in response to the CPCB's advisory clarification.

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Overview

  • The Bombay High Court removed its complete prohibition on PoP Ganpati idols, reinstating artisans’ rights to produce and sell them.
  • Idols made of Plaster of Paris cannot be immersed in rivers, lakes or the sea without prior court permission.
  • The CPCB told the court its 2020 guidelines are advisory, giving states leeway to set their own immersion rules.
  • Maharashtra’s cultural affairs minister said the government will draft a policy and arrange eco-friendly immersion facilities for large idols by June 30.
  • Anil Kakodkar’s expert panel recommended that sea immersion of PoP idols is feasible under environmental safeguards.