With Ganesh Chaturthi around the corner, several Hindu organisations in Goa have stepped up their campaign against the use of Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesh idols, urging the State government to implement a complete ban on such idols “ including those superficially coated with clay.
In a memorandum to the Deputy Collector of Mapusa on Tuesday, the groups demanded immediate action to curb the sale and transport of PoP idols into Goa from neighbouring states.
The memorandum cited environmental concerns and spiritual sentiments, stating that PoP idols do not dissolve properly after immersion, leading to pollution of water bodies and disrespect to the deity.
“These idols, especially those made with PoP or only coated with a thin layer of clay, tend to float after immersion, which is not just harmful to rivers and lakes but also hurts religious sentiments,” said a representative of the group behind the campaign.
The organisations have instead called for the promotion of Shadu clay idols, traditionally used in Maharashtra, which are known for their quick dissolution and minimal environmental footprint.
The call for action has struck a chord with several residents, but many have also voiced scepticism over whether authorities would act decisively.
“It’s the same story every year. Thousands of PoP idols are trucked into Goa from Maharashtra and Karnataka, openly sold in markets and roadside stalls, but there’s no crackdown. The law exists only on paper,” said Pundalik Pednekar, a local.
Another local Anand Asgaonkar echoed this sentiment. “If the government is serious, then let them deploy officials to all major idol-selling locations, issue warnings and slap heavy fines on those violating the rules. That’s the only way people will take it seriously.”
According to Atul Chitale, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) is the designated authority to monitor and regulate such activities. However, he accused the Board of dereliction of duty.
“Every year the GSPCB releases guidelines, but they are never enforced. Where are the inspections? Where are the penalties?” Chitale asked.
A 2022 report by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) had recommended that states like Goa prohibit PoP idols altogether and support workshops for artisans to transition to natural clay idol-making.
