Bombay HC Seeks Maharashtra Govt Stand on PM Modi's Eco-Friendly Clay Ganesh Idols Appeal
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Bombay High Court has asked the Maharashtra government to clarify its position on Prime Minister Modi's appeal for eco-friendly clay Ganesh idols. This comes amid ongoing litigation over CPCB guidelines banning PoP idol immersion in natural water bodies.
Background
The Central Pollution Control Board revised its guidelines in 2020 to prohibit immersion of plaster of Paris (PoP) idols in natural water bodies. Petitions have been filed by environmentalists seeking enforcement and by PoP manufacturers challenging the guidelines' validity.
Key facts
Bombay HC bench of Justices Ajey Gadkari and Kamal Khata heard the matter on July 30, 2026.
The court adjourned the hearing to August 4, 2026, seeking the government's stand on PM Modi's appeal for eco-friendly clay idols.
The state government informed the court that CM Devendra Fadnavis will convene a stakeholder meeting on July 31, 2026.
The Akhil Sarvajanik Utsav Samiti Maharashtra, representing Ganesh mandals, will wait for the government's position before making submissions.
PoP idol manufacturers argue that CPCB's 2020 revised guidelines lack statutory backing and are unenforceable.
Environmentalist Rohit Joshi filed a PIL seeking strict enforcement of the CPCB guidelines.
The court is also hearing petitions by PoP manufacturers challenging the validity of the guidelines.
Prelims pointers
- Bombay High Court
- Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- CPCB revised guidelines 2020
- Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols
- Eco-friendly clay idols
- Ganesh festival
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
- Akhil Sarvajanik Utsav Samiti Maharashtra
- Rohit Joshi (environmentalist)
- Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra CM)
Mains angles
- GS2: Role of judiciary in environmental protection and PILs.
- GS3: Environmental pollution from idol immersion and regulatory measures.
- GS2: Centre-state relations in implementing environmental guidelines.
- GS3: Balancing religious practices with environmental sustainability.