Anti-superstition group demands Maharashtra cancel plan to install astrological devices in State Secretariat

The Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti has demanded the cancellation of the State government's administrative approval to install two 'Kalayan' astrological time instruments at a combined cost of nearly ₹11 lakh, arguing that government offices meant for policy-making should not legitimise superstition.

Dr. Hamid Dabholkar, member of the anti-superstition organisation and son of slain rationalist Narendra Dabholkar, said the State Secretariat should not function as an astrological centre. "Granting official status to such equipment in the Vidhan Bhavan indirectly legitimises astrological beliefs. This action is deemed inconsistent with Article 51(A)(h) of the Indian Constitution, which mandates fostering a scientific temper, humanism and inquiry among citizens," he stated.

Constitutional and scientific concerns

The organisation's objection centres on the constitutional mandate to promote scientific temper and Maharashtra's historic leadership in fighting superstition. Dr. Hamid's sister, Mukta Dabholkar, expressed concern that the move undermined Maharashtra's pioneering role in promoting scientific temper and eradicating superstition by legitimising astrological ideas under the guise of science.

The cultural affairs department approved spending ₹5,48,700 for a single instrument and directed the Directorate of Archaeology to procure two such devices. One instrument is to be installed at the State Secretariat or the Mantralaya, while the other is to be placed at the State Legislature. The government has termed this as the initial plan.

What the devices display

According to the government order issued on September 4, the devices are described as more than simple clocks, representing a fusion of Indian astronomical knowledge and modern technology capable of showcasing various time formats and celestial movements. Beyond standard and GPS time, they can present planetary positions, astrological calendar and information about significant Indian cultural and national events, the order stated.

Procurement questions raised

While not opposing the study of Indian culture or traditional timekeeping, the Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti stressed the necessity of maintaining a clear distinction between astronomy and astrology. The organisation also raised concerns regarding the procurement process, noting that the government resolution indicated a private entity had offered an Expression of Interest and that it was the sole manufacturer.

"This prompts questions about the independent scientific and expert assessment of the device's utility before public funds were committed," Dr. Dabholkar said.

Blurring scientific boundaries

He explained that the device intertwines zodiac signs, constellations and the almanac with standard time, creating a misleading perception that unscientific astrology and astronomy are interchangeable. "While astronomy provides precise calculations of celestial bodies, astrology's claims about the future or personality lack scientific validation. No official recognition should be given to initiatives mixing astrological claims with scientific knowledge in government offices," he said.

The controversy highlights the tension between preserving cultural traditions and maintaining the scientific foundation of public institutions in a state that passed landmark anti-superstition legislation.

Source: The Hindu