Anti-superstition body seeks revocation of Maharashtra govt decision to install astrological time devices in State HQ
An anti-superstition group in Maharashtra is challenging the state government's decision to spend ₹11 lakh on 'astrological time devices' for government buildings. Critics argue the move violates the constitutional mandate to promote a scientific temper.
Why it matters
It reflects the ongoing tension between traditional cultural practices and secular, scientific governance in India.
Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti, an anti-superstition body, on Friday (September 11, 2026) sought the cancellation of the Maharashtra government’s decision to install astrological time devices in the State Secretariat and the Legislature, at the cost of almost ₹11 Lakh.
“The Mantralay (State Secretariat), meant for policy-making and public service, should not serve 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,” Maharashtra Andharashradda Nirmulan Samiti’s member Dr. Hamid Dabholkar said.
Dr. Hamid is the son of slain rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. His 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.
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