The Karnataka High Court has disposed of a writ petition filed by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) seeking directions for implementation of a government notification banning the manufacture, sale, and immersion of Plaster of Paris (POP) idols painted with toxic, heavy metal-based paints.
The Division Bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Joshi noted that the State Government had already issued a notification on September 15, 2023, prohibiting POP idols under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, and requiring district administrations, local bodies, and police authorities to enforce compliance.
The KSPCB contended that despite the ban, certain manufacturers in Gudimavu Village, Kumbalagodu Hobli, Bengaluru South Taluk continued producing idols illegally and even removed sealed stock from their units. The State, through the Additional Government Advocate, informed the Court that FIRs had been lodged against the violators and that action was being taken.
While refraining from issuing fresh directions, the Bench observed that the issue raised was “serious” and expected the State authorities to implement the notification with full seriousness and to its complete extent. The writ petition was accordingly disposed of with these observations.
Appearances:
Petitioner: Sri Mahesh A. Chowdhary
Respondent: Smt Niloufer Akbar AGA