Bombay High Court Questions Maharashtra on Symbolic Immersion Plan for Large Ganesha Idols
The Bombay High Court has directed the Maharashtra government to evaluate a ceremonial immersion proposal for idols taller than six feet. The move seeks to curb water pollution while balancing religious practices and law enforcement concerns.
Judicial Push for Ceremonial Alternatives
In a session on July 24, 2026, a division bench of the Bombay High Court proposed a radical shift in how Maharashtra handles large religious icons. Justice Ajay Gadkari and Justice Kamal Khata urged the State to consider a method where only the feet of Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols exceeding six feet are ceremonially dipped. Under this plan, the massive structures would then be moved to designated recycling facilities rather than being submerged in natural waterbodies.
Environmental Policy and State Resistance
The proceedings addressed a challenge to an August 2025 State policy that currently allows large PoP idols into open water while restricting smaller ones to artificial ponds. Advocate General Dr. Milind Sathe, representing the government, argued for a gradual phase-out over three years. He warned that an abrupt ban could spark law and order issues. Justice Gadkari dismissed this reasoning, stating that maintaining order is a fundamental state duty that cannot be used as an excuse for inaction.
Advocate General Sathe highlighted logistical hurdles, noting that a complete transition to natural clay would require 4,500 metric tonnes of material. Despite State data showing a drop in large PoP idols from 7,863 in 2024 to 4,194 in 2025, the court remained skeptical. Justice Khata emphasized the State's obligation to protect natural resources for future generations, regardless of the scale of devotion.
Accountability for Pollution Control Boards
The court also scrutinized the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) after its counsel, Abhinandan Vagyani, claimed its guidelines were merely advisory and lacked statutory weight. The bench rebuked this stance, pointing out that such arguments undermine environmental protections already upheld by several high courts and the National Green Tribunal. Key points from the hearing include:
- Proposal: Installing a sub-six-foot idol for immersion alongside a larger display idol.
- Recycling: Directing large PoP structures to collection centers after symbolic contact with water.
- Deadline: The CPCB must clarify its regulatory authority by the next hearing on July 28, 2026.
Source: The Hindu — Cities
