Navi Mumbai: Confusion has reportedly emerged over the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s (NMMC) arrangements for Ganesh idol immersion, with citizens questioning whether the civic body’s plan aligns with Bombay High Court directions.

The High Court’s July 24, 2025 order in Rohit Manohar Joshi & Ors. vs State of Maharashtra & Ors. directed that idols below six feet be immersed in artificial water tanks and asked local authorities to provide adequate facilities for the purpose.

However, the NMMC’s reported arrangement allows Shadu and clay idols to be immersed in natural water bodies, while restricting Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols to artificial tanks. Citizens have sought clarity on whether this interpretation is consistent with the court’s directions.

The court has also prescribed procedures for treating water from artificial immersion tanks, including appropriate treatment before further processing and safeguards to prevent discharge into drinking-water sources.

The Sajag Nagrik Manch, Navi Mumbai, has urged NMMC to issue clear written guidelines specifying immersion rules based on idol height and material. The forum has also sought details of artificial tanks, including their number, capacity, locations and operational status.

“There should be no confusion among citizens regarding the rules applicable to Ganesh idol immersion. The civic administration should clearly specify the applicable requirements based on the height and type of idol. Instead of putting up unnecessary advertisements at immersion sites, it would be more appropriate and legally justified to display a copy of the High Court order along with clear instructions regarding immersion,” said Sudhir Dani, promoter of Sajag Nagrik Manch.

Meanwhile, the High Court, on August 14, 2026, reserved its judgment in the related proceedings and directed that its earlier June 9, 2025 order would continue until the judgment is pronounced.

The forum has further sought coordination between NMMC and police to ensure uniform implementation of the applicable directions.