Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Monday asked the state government for its response on PM Narendra Modi’s appeal during Sunday’s Mann Ki Baat radio programme to use only eco-friendly clay idols during the ensuing Ganesh festival.“What is the state’s response?’’ asked Justices Gadkari and Kamal Khata during the final hearing on a PIL seeking implementation of Central Pollution Control Board’s 2020 revised guidelines that ban the use of Plaster of Paris (PoP) to make religious idols.The judges referred to a Marathi newspaper report and even showed the copy to the advocate general Milind Sathe, who sought time to respond. Last year, after CPCB clarified its guidelines were advisory in nature, HC had allowed above 6 ft idols to be immersed in natural water bodies as per state’s Aug 1, 2025 immersion policy.CPCB’s advocate Abhinandan Vagyani said the guidelines were upheld by HC and National Green Tribunal but also said they are advisory. The judges pointed out that HC and NGT proceeded with matters on the basis that the guidelines are mandatory. “How do you now say they are advisory, not mandatory?” asked Justice Gadkari.The judges questioned why CPCB shifted its stand in 2025 and “why not before 2025.” To this, Vagyani replied saying it was following the state govt’s request and committee’s recommendation. “Because the state govt told you, you changed (your stand)?’’ asked Justice Khata. The hearing will continue on Wednesday.
