Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar alongwith MLAs Francis Dsouza, Damodar Naik and Milind Naik issued a Memorandum to the Chief Secretary J P Singh, which seeks a ban on Plaster of Paris Ganesha idols. The memorandum states that the Ganesha Chaturthi festival starts from September 3. Artisans will start making of Ganesha idol 2/3 months before of this festival. While traditionally Ganesh Idols were made of clay of late these idols are made of Plaster of Paris(PoP) and limestone used in the industry to eliminate the acidity of chemicals. Another disconcerting change is that due to availability cheaper PoP idols, a number of crafts persons will not only lose their vocation but also the skills will also fall in disuse. In a press release issued here, by BJP has demanded that the Government should immediately enact a law to ban the manufacture and sale of Ganesha idols made of PoP and also to initiate strict action against such person who are manufacturing and selling Ganesha idols of PoP in the State. According to the press release issued here, the Plaster of Paris does not get dissolved or disintegrated fast. Moreover, the chemical dyes and colours used to the idols contain poisonous elements. Particularly, red, pine, orange and green colours contain mercury, zinc oxide, chromium and lead, the potential causes of developing cancer. Massive hurt is caused by the Plaster Of Paris on the fauna and flora of these coastal areas. Since PoP is a costly substance, the artisans are often compelled to use limestone that is used in the industries to eliminate the acidity of the chemicals. This limestone contains many poisonous substances and acids. The idols prepared out of this material get easily dissolved after entering the water, releasing dangerous chemicals into the water. Clearly urgent action is required to resort back to more friendly clay idols of Lord Ganesha for more than one reason. In the press release, the leader of the opposition Manohar Parrikar has stated that he has raised this issue in various forums and hopes that the Government will take necessary action.