Bombay High Court Reviews Maharashtra’s 5‑Foot Rule for Ganesh Idol Immersions
On July 23, 2025, Maharashtra’s Advocate General Dr. Birendra Saraf informed the Bombay High Court that Ganesh idols measuring **5 feet or less** will be required to be immersed in **artificial ponds**, while idols **above 5 feet**—about **7,000 in number**—will be permitted in **natural water bodies** and removed the next morning.
Court Raises Environmental Concerns
The court expressed skepticism, noting that **7,000 PoP idols** still pose a substantial environmental threat. Chief Justice Aradhe questioned why larger idols couldn’t also be redirected to artificial tanks, suggesting a reconsideration of the 5‑foot limit. The bench specifically asked if idols up to **7 or 8 feet** could similarly be immersed in artificial ponds.
AG’s Response & State’s Proposal
Dr. Saraf explained that idols taller than 10 feet often occupy an entire tank—making artificial immersion logistically challenging. He clarified that PoP idols do not dissolve quickly, hence all idols in natural waters will be extracted the morning after immersion to mitigate environmental damage.
Court Directive & Timeline
The bench asked the state to reconsider the immersion height limit and provide clarification **by tomorrow**, before adjourning the hearing. A decision on whether idols up to **8 feet** should be diverted to artificial tanks is expected to form part of the interim directions for the Ganeshotsav.
This update forms part of ongoing litigation addressing immersion of PoP idols in natural water bodies, exploring eco-friendly alternatives via artificial immersion, consistent with CPCB guidance.
For more legal and environmental news updates, visit gpsc-ojas.com/news/.
