The teams inspected 357 shops and warehouses where idols were allegedly being manufactured or stored in violation of prescribed guidelines. | Image for representation
| Photo Credit: File photo
Special enforcement teams in Karnataka have seized 2,564 Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesha idols during inspections conducted across the State to prevent their manufacture and sale.
Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy directed officials to form special enforcement teams in all districts to prevent the manufacture, transportation and sale of PoP idols, which are considered harmful to the environment and aquatic life.
According to Mr. Reddy, four to five special teams have been formed in each district. The enforcement drive, which began on August 18, continued until September 9, covering several districts across Karnataka. “During the operation, the teams inspected 357 shops and warehouses where idols were allegedly being manufactured or stored in violation of prescribed guidelines. A total of 2,564 PoP Ganesha idols were seized,” he said.
The enforcement teams were assisted by local police personnel and officials from various government departments. Inspections were carried out in Bengaluru Urban, Ramanagara, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, Hassan, Kodagu, Mangaluru, Chikkamagaluru, Karwar, Udupi, Belagavi, Vijayapura, Davangere, Shivamogga, Tumakuru and several other districts.
The Minister himself is scheduled to participate in the enforcement operation from Thursday (September 10, 2026) afternoon.
The Karnataka government has strictly prohibited the manufacture, transportation, sale and immersion of PoP Ganesha idols. Mr. Reddy appealed to citizens to celebrate the festival using biodegradable clay idols and avoid PoP idols to help reduce water pollution, waste and damage to aquatic ecosystems.
Published – September 09, 2026 07:46 pm IST
