Ashish Shelar, the president of BJP Mumbai unit, expressed his disagreement with the ban on Ganesh idols made of Plaster of Paris (PoP) imposed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Shelar argued that the ban would negatively affect the business and employment opportunities for the local people.
Speaking at a gathering of Ganesha sculptors organized by the Lalbagh-Parel Ganesh Murtikar Sangh in Parel, Shelar emphasized that the idol-making industry using PoP is a significant source of employment in Maharashtra, with an annual turnover in crores. He warned against any attempts to shut down this industry, stating that it would not be allowed to happen.
Shelar also mentioned that recent scientific studies have suggested environmentally friendly methods of immersing PoP idols. He called for a reconsideration of the BMC’s circular, which mandates the use of natural clay (shadu) for idols below four feet in height.
The debate surrounding the ban on PoP Ganesh idols continues, with stakeholders advocating for a balance between cultural traditions and environmental concerns.