Anti-superstition body seeks revocation of Maharashtra govt decision to install astrological time devices in State HQ

The Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti, an organization dedicated to combating superstition, has called for the withdrawal of the Maharashtra government's decision to install astrological time devices in the State Secretariat and the Legislature at a cost of nearly ₹11 Lakhs. Dr. Hamid Dabholkar, a member of the organization and son of the late rationalist Narendra Dabholkar, argued that placing official sanction on such devices in a place meant for policy-making and public service would legitimise the beliefs in astrology.

This decision, he said, conflicts with Article 51(A)(h) of the Indian Constitution, which promotes a scientific temper and inquiry among citizens. The government's order last week authorized the installation of 'Kalayan' time instruments, with the cultural affairs department allocating ₹5,48,700 for one device and directing the Directorate of Archaeology to procure two devices for installation at the State Secretariat and the Legislature.

The devices, blending Indian astronomical knowledge with modern technology, can display various time formats and celestial movements. The Samiti stressed the importance of distinguishing between astronomy and astrology, cautioning that the installation of these devices in a government setting could confuse unscientific astrology with legitimate astronomy.