Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Activists Criticize Maharashtra Govt. Over PoP Idol Ban
The Maharashtra government is being criticized for not being strict enough about banning idols made of PoP for the Ganeshotsav festival.
Some people think the government is changing the rules to win votes in the upcoming elections.
The High Court said that only PoP idols smaller than six feet must be put in special ponds, but the government has not figured out how to handle the waste in an environmentally friendly way.
Some states follow the rules, but Maharashtra does not, which is causing arguments about pollution.
Maharashtra government is facing criticism for allegedly diluting the ban on Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols ahead of the Ganeshotsav festival.
Environmental activists accuse the government of interpreting Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines to appease voters.
The Bombay High Court has allowed PoP idols above six feet to be immersed in natural water bodies.
Activists point out that the CPCB guidelines are mandatory in Goa and Karnataka but advisory in Maharashtra.
Concerns have been raised regarding the scientific disposal of PoP materials and the environmental impact of the immersion process.
- Who
- Environmental activists, the Maharashtra government, the Bombay High Court, and the CPCB.
- What
- Controversy over Maharashtra's handling of the PoP idol ban for Ganeshotsav.
- When
- Ahead of the Ganeshotsav festival and upcoming local body elections.
- Where
- Maharashtra, India.
- Why
- Concerns about environmental pollution and allegations of political appeasement.
Environmental Activists
Maharashtra Government
Compliance
Environmental Activists
Government is diluting the PoP ban.
Maharashtra Government
The government is following advisory guidelines.
Guidelines
Environmental Activists
CPCB's guidelines should be mandatory
Maharashtra Government
CPCB's guidelines are advisory in nature.
- Festival
- Ganeshotsav 2025
- Idol Material
- Plaster of Paris (PoP)
- Court Ruling
- Allows PoP idols above 6 ft in natural water bodies
- Key Issue
- Dilution of PoP idol ban
- Government Action
- Interpreting CPCB guidelines as advisory