Bombay HC Questions Plea For More Time To Phase Out PoP Idols, Says One-Year Extension Already Granted

Bombay High Court questioned Maharashtra government and PoP idol manufacturers over request for more time to phase out Plaster of Paris idols.

Court noted a one-year extension had already been granted and stressed environmental protection.

Central Pollution Control Board's 2020 guidelines prohibit immersion of PoP idols in natural water bodies.

State sought to continue allowing immersion of idols above six feet in natural water bodies, citing a pilot recycling project.

Manufacturers argued no practical alternative for idols above six feet and sought one to two more years for gradual transition.