Today, the Bombay High Court made it clear that no Plaster of Paris (PoP) idol will be allowed to be immersed in natural water bodies under any circumstances.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne said that while the making of PoP idols may continue, their immersion must only take place in artificial water bodies.

“We, therefore, deem it appropriate to direct the State to take a decision with respect to immersion of idols made of PoP in light of the recommendations made by the CPCB expert committee… Needless to state, associations or artisans may make idols of PoP, but the same shall not be immersed in any natural body,” the court stated while dictating the order.

The bench was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) raising concerns about ongoing immersions of PoP idols in violation of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines. The court was informed that a CPCB Expert Committee had recommended that while PoP idols may be manufactured, they should be immersed only in artificial ponds to protect natural water bodies. CPCB also clarified that its guidelines are advisory and not statutory.

During the hearing, Advocate General Dr. Birendra Saraf requested some flexibility for large idols (20 feet and above), arguing that they have become integral to cultural traditions.

However, the court remained firm, stating, “Mr. AG, we are sure about the fact that any PoP idol will not be permitted to be immersed in a natural water body. You can create artificial water bodies and immerse the PoP idols there.”

The Advocate General also noted that the State would not object if community groups opted to reuse the same idol annually.

Directing the State to take a decision on the issue in three weeks, the court scheduled the matter for further hearing on June 30.