Thursday, July 3, 2025

Martyrs for rationalism (part 3)

 


The third and concluding part of tonight´s essay. Some new material added to this one, not present in the original version! 

Why was Dravidian nationalism associated with leftism, atheism and rationalism?

Great question! The association of Dravidian nationalism with leftism, atheism, and rationalism has deep historical and social roots, especially in the context of South India, particularly Tamil Nadu. Here's why:


1. Reaction Against Brahminical/Hindu Orthodoxy

  • The Dravidian movement arose largely as a response to social domination by Brahmins (who were seen as the custodians of orthodox Hinduism and the caste hierarchy).

  • Brahmin elites controlled much of the religious, educational, and administrative power.

  • This created resentment among the non-Brahmin "Dravidian" populations who felt oppressed socially and economically.

2. Influence of Rationalist and Anti-Caste Leaders

  • Early leaders like Periyar E. V. Ramasamy championed rationalism, atheism, and anti-caste ideologies.

  • Periyar saw religion (particularly Hinduism) as a tool used by Brahmins to maintain caste oppression.

  • He promoted self-respectsocial equality, and scientific temper as antidotes to superstition and hierarchy.

3. Leftist Ideology and Social Justice

  • The Dravidian movement had a strong social justice focus: dismantling caste, promoting land reforms, labor rights, and educational opportunities.

  • This aligned naturally with left-wing, socialist, and sometimes Marxist ideas.

  • They viewed class and caste oppression as intertwined.

4. Atheism as Political Statement

  • Rejecting the dominant Hindu religious framework was both a political and social statement.

  • Atheism became a marker of identity against Brahminical Hinduism and religious orthodoxy.

  • It also fit the Enlightenment-inspired ideal of reason over faith, helping to mobilize people around rationalism and reform.

5. Dravidian Parties' Platform

  • Political parties like the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) institutionalized these ideas.

  • They included rationalist literatureatheist propaganda, and anti-religious caste reform in their agenda.

  • They distanced themselves from Hindu nationalist politics (which they saw as Brahminical and North Indian dominated).


Summary

Dravidian nationalism was intertwined with leftist, atheist, and rationalist currents because it was:

  • A revolt against caste and Brahminical Hindu orthodoxy

  • A movement rooted in social justice and egalitarianism

  • Led by thinkers who promoted reason, science, and atheism as tools for liberation

It wasn't just ethnic or linguistic pride — it was a broader cultural and political revolution against social and religious hierarchy.


If you'd like, I can share more about key figures like Periyar or how these ideas evolved politically in Tamil Nadu!

How did Kalburgi rationally interpret Lingayatism?

M. M. Kalburgi (Malleshappa Madivalappa Kalburgi), a renowned Kannada scholar and rationalist, offered a radical, historical-critical interpretation of Lingayatism that challenged orthodox views. He saw Lingayatism not as a sect within Hinduism, but as a distinct, progressive religious movement rooted in anti-Brahminical, rationalist, and egalitarian principles.

Here's how he interpreted Lingayatism from a rationalist standpoint:


1. Lingayatism as a Rebellion Against Hindu Orthodoxy

Kalburgi emphasized that 12th-century Lingayatism, founded by Basavanna and his contemporaries, was a social and spiritual revolt:

  • Rejected Vedas, caste hierarchy, Brahmin priesthood, rituals, and idol worship.

  • Promoted direct devotion to Shiva (Ishtalinga) without intermediaries.

  • Advocated equality of all people, including women and Dalits.

➡️ Kalburgi viewed this as a proto-rationalist social reform movement, not just a theological one.


2. Deconstruction of Hagiographies

Kalburgi questioned the mythological elements in the "Vachana" literature and the Sharana tradition:

  • He argued that many stories about Basavanna and Allama Prabhu were later additions meant to re-sacralize a movement that originally challenged sacral authority.

  • He used historical and philological methods to separate myth from socio-political reality.

➡️ His academic work aimed to demystify the Sharana figures and interpret them as human reformers, not divine beings.


3. Critique of the Re-Hinduisation of Lingayatism

Kalburgi opposed the later absorption of Lingayatism back into mainstream Hinduism:

  • He criticized how later Lingayat institutions and mathas (monasteries) reinstituted caste-like hierarchies.

  • He argued this was a betrayal of Basavanna’s radical vision.

  • Supported the movement to recognize Lingayatism as a separate religion, distinct from Hinduism.


4. Promotion of Rational Inquiry and Free Thought

  • Kalburgi, influenced by Dravidian rationalism and thinkers like Periyar, believed religion should be open to criticism and reform.

  • He encouraged a non-theistic, human-centered interpretation of religious figures and texts.

  • He was part of a broader Kannada rationalist tradition, alongside thinkers like U. R. Ananthamurthy and Gauri Lankesh.


5. Controversy and Martyrdom

His writings angered religious conservatives:

  • He faced backlash for allegedly blaspheming revered Lingayat saints.

  • Despite identifying culturally with Lingayatism, his rational critique led to death threats.

  • He was assassinated in 2015, likely by far-right Hindu extremists.


Summary

Kalburgi interpreted Lingayatism as:

  • A rationalist, anti-caste social movement, not a sect of Hinduism.

  • Originally anti-ritual and anti-authoritarian, but later co-opted by orthodoxy.

  • In need of historical re-evaluation and revival of its egalitarian spirit.

His legacy lies in defending intellectual freedom, and insisting that even revered religious traditions must be open to historical and rational critique.

Let me know if you'd like a summary of his key works or controversies.

Can you tell me about Lingayatism more generally?

Certainly. Lingayatism (also called Veerashaivism, though the two terms are sometimes distinguished) is a distinct religious tradition that arose in 12th-century Karnataka, South India. It was founded by Basavanna, a poet-philosopher, social reformer, and minister in the court of the Kalachuri king Bijjala II. Lingayatism is often seen as a radical reform movement that broke from the orthodoxy of caste-based Brahmanical Hinduism.


đŸ”č Core Beliefs of Lingayatism

1. Monotheism

  • Worship of one God, identified as Shiva in the form of the Ishtalinga — a personal symbol of divinity worn around the neck.

  • God is formless, infinite, and directly accessible to all, without need for priests or temples.

2. Rejection of Vedic Authority

  • Lingayatism rejects the Vedas, caste system, ritual sacrifices, astrology, and other Brahmanical practices.

  • It views such practices as socially unjust and spiritually unnecessary.

3. No Caste or Gender Discrimination

  • One of the earliest religious movements in India to explicitly reject caste and promote gender equality.

  • Women were among its leading saints and poets (e.g., Akka Mahadevi).

4. Social Justice and Ethical Living

  • Strong emphasis on personal integrity, honest work (kayaka), and sharing with the community (dasoha).

  • Spirituality is not separate from daily life.

5. No Idol Worship or Pilgrimage

  • Instead of temple worship, each Lingayat carries a personal linga and engages in daily introspective worship.

  • Rejection of external rituals, funeral rites, and sacred geography of Hindu pilgrimage sites.


đŸ”č Key Figures

  • Basavanna (Basava) – Founder; emphasized egalitarianism and moral devotion.

  • Allama Prabhu – Mystical poet and spiritual leader of the movement.

  • Akka Mahadevi – Female poet-saint who renounced societal norms and devoted herself to Shiva.

  • Channabasavanna – Basavanna’s nephew and major figure in the canonization of Lingayat philosophy.


đŸ”č Vachana Literature

  • Lingayat philosophy is expressed in Vachanas — short, devotional poems written in Kannada.

  • These poems are accessible, non-scholarly, and often subversive of social norms and hypocrisy.


đŸ”č Lingayatism Today

Geographic Base:

  • Strongest in Karnataka, with communities in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

  • Estimated 6–7% of Karnataka's population.

Social and Political Role:

  • Lingayats have been a politically influential community in Karnataka, especially since the 20th century.

  • Major figures from the community include B. D. Jatti and B. S. Yediyurappa.

Movement for Recognition:

  • There is an ongoing debate about whether Lingayatism is a distinct religion or a sect within Hinduism.

  • Some adherents (especially progressives) seek legal and constitutional recognition as a separate religion.

  • The issue is both religious and political, touching on identity, reservation benefits, and state policy.


đŸ”č Lingayat vs Veerashaiva: Are They the Same?

  • Historically, no.

    • Veerashaivism is older, often seen as a Shaivite sect with roots in ancient Hindu texts.

    • Lingayatism, founded by Basavanna, was more radical and anti-Brahmanical.

  • However, over time the two have merged somewhat, especially in institutional and religious practice.

  • Some modern Lingayats argue that Veerashaivas reabsorbed Lingayatism into Hinduism, diluting its reformist edge.


đŸ”č Summary

AspectLingayatism
Origin12th-century Karnataka, Basavanna
GodMonotheistic worship of Shiva (Ishtalinga)
ScripturesVachanas (devotional poems)
CasteExplicitly rejected
GenderEmphasized equality
RitualsRejects Vedic rituals, idol worship
Identity DebateSeparate religion vs. Hindu sect

Would you like a summary of their key philosophical ideas or current political status in India?

What is the current status of Lingayats?

The current status of Lingayats—both religiously and politically—is complex and evolving, particularly in India, and especially in Karnataka, where they are a major socio-political force. Here’s a breakdown of their present-day status:


đŸ”č 1. Demographic and Social Position

  • Lingayats make up around 10–17% of the population of Karnataka, depending on estimates.

  • They are a diverse community: while rooted in Basava’s egalitarian teachings, many Lingayats today are economically and socially varied—from rural farmers to urban elites.

  • Lingayats are dominant in some professions, especially in education, cooperatives, and politics.


đŸ”č 2. Religious Identity Debate

❖ Ongoing Demand for Recognition as a Separate Religion

  • A major contemporary issue is whether Lingayatism should be considered distinct from Hinduism.

  • In 2018, the Karnataka state government (under the Indian National Congress) recommended that Lingayatism be given minority religion status.

  • However, this recommendation was not approved by the central government (ruled by the BJP), which continues to classify Lingayats as Hindus.

❖ Arguments for Separation

  • Historical basis: Basava’s rejection of Vedic authority and caste.

  • Doctrinal differences: Monotheism, no idol worship, no Brahmanical priesthood.

  • Cultural distinctiveness: Own scriptures (Vachanas), rituals, and community structures.

❖ Internal Divisions

  • Some Lingayats (especially Veerashaivas) see themselves as a Shaivite sect within Hinduism.

  • Others (particularly reform-minded groups) emphasize Basava’s original teachings and argue for a non-Hindu identity.

  • This split creates tensions within the community over both identity and leadership.


đŸ”č 3. Political Influence

  • Lingayats are one of the most politically influential caste groups in Karnataka.

  • They have historically supported the BJP, but their loyalty has sometimes shifted depending on how their religious demands are handled.

  • Key Lingayat political figures:

    • B. S. Yediyurappa – Former Chief Minister of Karnataka (BJP), strong Lingayat leader.

    • Jagadish Shettar and Basavaraj Bommai – Other Lingayat CMs from BJP.

  • The demand for minority religion status has become a key electoral issue, with parties like the Congress using it to challenge BJP's hold on the community.


đŸ”č 4. Cultural Revival and Education

  • Lingayat organizations run numerous educational institutions, hospitals, and charitable trusts.

  • Basava Jayanthi (Basava’s birthday) is widely celebrated and has been promoted as a state holiday in Karnataka.

  • The Lingayat Mahasabha and various mathas (monastic centers) promote community cohesion and sometimes advocate on political or religious issues.


đŸ”č 5. National and Legal Status

  • As of now (2025):

    • The Indian government officially considers Lingayats to be Hindus.

    • Lingayat demands for religious minority status remain pending or inactive at the national level.

    • Some educational or minority institutions have tried to claim rights under minority status, but this is contested and uneven.


đŸ”č Summary

DimensionCurrent Status
Population10–17% of Karnataka; influential in other southern states
Religious IdentityDebated: separate religion vs. Hindu sect
Government StatusLegally classified as Hindus (no separate religion status nationally)
Political RoleDominant caste group in Karnataka; major role in BJP and Congress strategies
Cultural RoleStrong educational institutions, mathas, and community networks
Internal DiversityDivided between conservative (Veerashaiva) and reformist (Basava-based) wings

Would you like more detail on the 2018 controversy over minority status, or on the role of Lingayat mathas today?

Martyrs for rationalism (part 2)

 


OK, so I decided to split the long essay into several parts. Here is the second one! 

Who was the progressive king Shivaji?

Shivaji Bhonsle (1630–1680), often called Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was the founder of the Maratha Empire in western India and one of the most celebrated figures in Indian history. While he lived in the 17th century and not in a modern "progressive" era, many modern Indian thinkers — especially in Maharashtra — have described him as progressive due to his policies, leadership style, and relatively inclusive governance for his time.


🛡️ Quick Overview

  • Born: 1630, in Shivneri Fort, Maharashtra

  • Died: 1680

  • Founded: The Maratha Empire

  • Coronation: 1674, crowned as Chhatrapati (sovereign king) at Raigad Fort


đŸ”„ Why Is Shivaji Seen as "Progressive"?

Despite living in a feudal and religiously charged time, Shivaji:

1. Promoted Religious Tolerance

  • Though a devout Hindu, he respected all religions.

  • He employed Muslims in high-ranking positions, including generals and governors.

  • He discouraged temple destruction and did not target civilians during campaigns — a contrast to many rulers of the time.

2. Supported Women’s Dignity

  • Strict laws against abduction, harassment, or molestation of women, even during war.

  • Encouraged honorable treatment of women prisoners — rare in his era.

  • There are records of him punishing his own soldiers for violating these policies.

3. Established a Modern Bureaucracy

  • Created a centralized administrative system with civil and military officers.

  • Organized a navy — one of the first Indian rulers to do so — to defend the coast.

  • Supported agriculture, trade, and fort-building over mere conquest.

4. Resisted Imperial Domination

  • Fought against the powerful Mughal EmpireBijapur Sultanate, and later Portuguese and British colonial forces.

  • Symbolized Indian resistance and self-rule, which earned him a heroic legacy among Indian nationalists and reformers centuries later.

5. Fostered Cultural Pride

  • Used Marathi and Sanskrit in court and administration (instead of Persian or Arabic).

  • Built and restored Hindu temples, but without hostility toward other communities.


👑 Legacy

Shivaji is a folk hero across India, especially in Maharashtra, where he is considered a symbol of:

  • Hindu resistance

  • Self-governance (Swarajya)

  • Courage and fairness

  • Anti-imperialism

Many Indian reformers, including Bal Gangadhar Tilak, celebrated him as a model for Indian nationalism in the late 19th century.


Would you like to know more about his military campaigns, relationship with the Mughals, or how different communities view his legacy today?

What is the Sanatan Sanstha?

The Sanatan Sanstha is a controversial Hindu nationalist organization based in India, known primarily for its promotion of a Hindu spiritual and cultural revivalist agenda but also linked to extremist activities.


Overview:

  • Full name: Sanatan Sanstha (meaning "Eternal Organization")

  • Founded: 1999

  • Founders: R. G. Bhat and others (initially as a spiritual organization)

  • Headquarters: Goa, India

  • Nature: A right-wing Hindu group combining spiritual teachings with political activism


What Does It Do?

  • The Sanstha promotes what it calls Sanatan Dharma — traditional Hindu values and spirituality.

  • Conducts spiritual workshops, yoga camps, and runs charitable activities.

  • Focuses on educating people about Hindu scriptures, rituals, and practices.

  • Advocates for Hindu unity and cultural preservation.


Controversies and Allegations:

  • The group has been accused of involvement in extremist activities and violence against individuals perceived as threats to Hinduism, such as secular activists, rationalists, or minority communities.

  • Several members or alleged associates have been arrested or accused in connection with bomb blasts and murders in Maharashtra and Goa during the 2000s and 2010s.

  • The Sanatan Sanstha denies involvement in violence but is considered by some police and experts to be an extremist group.


Legal Status and Government View:

  • The organization is not officially banned by the Indian government as of now.

  • Some politicians and law enforcement officials have called for it to be banned due to its alleged links to violence.

  • It remains active, with a significant following, especially in Goa and Maharashtra.


Summary:

  • The Sanatan Sanstha presents itself as a spiritual and cultural organization promoting Hindu revivalism.

  • It is controversial and suspected of militant activities by authorities and civil rights groups.

  • Its role in Indian society is often debated — between spiritual teachings and alleged extremist tactics.


If you want, I can share details on specific incidents linked to the group or their spiritual ideology. Would you like that? 

Martyrs for rationalism (part 1)

 


Tonight´s somewhat eclectic ChatGPT essay. Or rather part one. Could be interesting! 

How does atheism look in India? For instance, are supporters of leftist political parties atheists?

Atheism in India is a minority position but has deep roots, particularly in philosophical traditions and certain political movements. Here's a breakdown of its status, including among leftist political supporters:


đŸ”č Atheism in Indian Society

1. Religious Identification

  • Over 95% of Indians identify with a religion (mostly Hinduism, followed by Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, etc.).

  • Religion is deeply embedded in culture, identity, and public life.

2. Atheists as a Minority

  • Atheists, agnostics, or non-religious people likely make up less than 1–2% of the population.

  • However, public declarations of atheism are more visible than the raw numbers suggest, particularly in urban and intellectual circles.


đŸ”č Traditions of Atheism in India

India has ancient traditions of atheistic or non-theistic thought, especially within:

TraditionNotes
CharvakaAn ancient materialist, explicitly atheistic school (rejected karma, afterlife, deities).
BuddhismNon-theistic; does not posit a creator god.
JainismNon-theistic; gods exist but are not creators or central.
Certain Hindu schoolsSome Vedantic and Samkhya schools focus on metaphysics rather than deity worship.

đŸ”č Atheism and Indian Leftist Movements

1. Communist and Marxist Parties

  • Parties like the CPI(M) and CPI have traditionally included atheism or secularism as part of their ideology.

  • Many leaders and cadres of these parties are personally atheistic or strongly secular.

  • However, party members often tolerate or even participate in cultural religious practices due to social and electoral realities.

2. Dravidian Movement (South India)

  • The Dravidian movement (especially in Tamil Nadu) has a strong tradition of rationalism and atheism, linked to leaders like Periyar E.V. Ramasamy.

  • The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) promoted atheism, anti-casteism, and opposition to Brahminical Hinduism.

  • Today, explicit atheism is less emphasized, but the legacy of rationalism continues in parts of southern India.

3. Rationalist Organizations

  • India has numerous rationalist associations (e.g., Indian Rationalist Association, Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti).

  • Leaders like Narendra Dabholkar (assassinated in 2013) promoted scientific temper and skepticism toward superstition and miracle claims.


đŸ”č Summary

ContextAtheism/Non-belief Presence
General PopulationVery low (~1–2%)
Urban, educated elitesSome presence, often discreet
Leftist/Communist PartiesCommon among leadership, often secular or atheist
Dravidian Politics (Tamil Nadu)Historically atheist, now more rationalist
Rationalist MovementsActive, especially in Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu

🔍 Key distinction: In India, public atheism often means opposition to religious dogma, superstition, or social injustice, not necessarily an attack on all spiritual belief.

Would you like a breakdown of atheism in Indian states or among specific demographics like students or Dalits?

Who is Narendra Dabholkar?

Narendra Dabholkar (1945–2013) was an Indian physician, rationalist, and social reformer best known for his lifelong campaign against superstition, black magic, and pseudoscientific religious practices in India.


🧬 Background and Early Life

  • Born: November 1, 1945, in Satara, Maharashtra.

  • Professionally trained as a medical doctor.

  • Early on, he was involved in sports (a national-level athlete) and social activism.


🧠 Activism and Rationalism

Founder of:

🛡 Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS)

  • Founded in 1989, it translates to "Committee for Eradication of Blind Faith."

  • Aimed to promote scientific temper, humanism, and oppose superstitions like:

    • "Miracle" healers

    • Occult rituals

    • Black magic

    • Witchcraft accusations

    • Astrology and religious exploitation


📚 Advocacy for Anti-Superstition Law

  • Dabholkar campaigned for a law to criminalize exploitative and fraudulent religious practices.

  • Faced resistance from religious and right-wing groups, who claimed it was anti-Hindu, despite the bill being non-religious and behavior-focused.

  • After years of advocacy, he drafted the Maharashtra Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Ordinance.


🕯 Assassination (2013)

  • Dabholkar was shot dead by unidentified assailants on August 20, 2013, in Pune while on a morning walk.

  • His murder shocked India and drew widespread condemnation.

  • Days after his death, the Maharashtra government passed the ordinance he had championed.


⚖️ Aftermath and Legal Case

  • Multiple suspects with links to extremist Hindu organizations (like Sanatan Sanstha) were investigated.

  • The case remains complex and politically sensitive, with arrests and charges but no final conviction yet (as of mid-2020s).


📜 Legacy

  • Dabholkar is remembered as a martyr for rationalism.

  • He inspired many rationalist and humanist movements across India.

  • His death helped galvanize public opinion in support of scientific temper and legal reform.


🧠 His work exemplified Article 51A(h) of the Indian Constitution:
"To develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform."

Would you like to know more about the anti-superstition law or about similar activists like Govind Pansare and M.M. Kalburgi?

All of them.

Certainly — here's an overview of three prominent Indian rationalist activists who were all assassinated for their work promoting scientific thinking and challenging religious orthodoxy:


🧠 1. Narendra Dabholkar (1945–2013)

Profession: Doctor, Rationalist
Focus: Superstition and blind faith, especially in rural Maharashtra

Key Contributions:

  • Founded Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS)

  • Drafted the Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Bill

  • Targeted exploitative "godmen" and miracle healers

Assassination:

  • Date: August 20, 2013 (Pune)

  • Circumstances: Shot during his morning walk

  • Suspects: Alleged members of right-wing extremist group Sanatan Sanstha


📚 2. Govind Pansare (1933–2015)

Profession: Lawyer, CPI (Marxist) Politician, Writer
Focus: Rationalism, history, and social justice

Key Contributions:

  • Wrote the popular book "Shivaji Kon Hota?" ("Who Was Shivaji?")

    • Argued that Shivaji was a progressive king, not a religious chauvinist

  • Worked for labor rights, caste justice, and secularism

Assassination:

  • Date: February 20, 2015 (Kolhapur)

  • Circumstances: Shot outside his home with his wife; he later died from wounds

  • Suspects: Again, links to Sanatan Sanstha were alleged


📖 3. M. M. Kalburgi (1938–2015)

Profession: Scholar, Former Vice-Chancellor of Kannada University
Focus: Kannada literature, Lingayat history, criticism of idol worship

Key Contributions:

  • Critiqued superstition within Hindu practices, particularly idol worship

  • Spoke against Brahmanical domination and for rational interpretation of Lingayatism

  • Viewed by some as a heretic among religious conservatives

Assassination:

  • Date: August 30, 2015 (Dharwad, Karnataka)

  • Circumstances: Shot at close range at his home

  • Suspects: Investigations suggested a common modus operandi with other assassinations


đŸ§” Common Threads

FeatureDabholkarPansareKalburgi
Challenged superstitions
Attacked right-wing orthodoxy
Assassinated in public/residential space
Cases linked to extremist Hindu groups (esp. Sanatan Sanstha)

⚖️ Investigations and Outcome

  • All three murders remain partially unresolved, with:

    • Arrests made

    • Connections drawn between killings

    • National Investigation Agency (NIA) and state police involved

  • Critics accuse authorities of slow progress, possibly due to political sensitivities


🕊 Legacy

  • These three figures have become symbols of rationalist courage in India

  • Sparked public debates on:

    • Freedom of expression

    • Religious extremism

    • The right to scientific critique

  • Inspired writers, activists, and students to continue the fight for reason and secularism


Would you like more detail on any one of these figures, or on the Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act that Dabholkar promoted?

Yes, the act. Is this the act that prohibits Aghori practices (or alleged Aghori practices)?

Great question.

The Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act that you're referring to is officially called the:

Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013

Yes — the act explicitly mentions "Aghori practices" among the prohibited activities. However, it’s important to understand what this means in legal and cultural context:


🔍 Key Facts about the Act:

  • Drafted by: Dr. Narendra Dabholkar

  • Passed in: Maharashtra in 2013, shortly after Dabholkar’s assassination

  • Scope: Criminalizes a list of practices labeled as harmful, fraudulent, or exploitative under the guise of religion or superstition


⚖️ What Does the Act Ban?

It does not target all religious or spiritual practices but focuses on specific actions considered:

  • Exploitative

  • Violent

  • Deceptive

  • Unscientific

Examples of Prohibited Practices:

  • Claiming to perform miracles or cures to cheat people

  • Black magic for harm or control over others

  • Human sacrifices or rituals involving physical injury

  • Using so-called divine powers to sexually exploit someone

  • Forcing people to eat excreta, hair, urine, or other humiliating substances

  • Banning people from medical treatment in favor of superstition


⚠️ Aghori Practices in the Act

The Act specifically prohibits:

“Practices falsely associated with the so-called Aghori tradition, such as compelling people to eat excreta, urine, or participate in degrading acts under spiritual pretenses.”

  • The law targets alleged Aghori rituals when they are used fraudulently or harmfully

  • It does not criminalize Aghori identity or beliefs per se

  • Legitimate religious asceticism (if non-violent and consensual) is generally not affected


đŸ§˜đŸ» Religious Freedom vs Public Safety

The Act was carefully worded to avoid banning religions or faiths wholesale. Instead, it targets:

  • Exploitation of gullible or vulnerable people

  • Coercion or harm in the name of spiritual authority

  • Commercial or sexual abuse masquerading as spiritual healing


📍 States with Similar Laws

Besides Maharashtra, other Indian states have passed or considered similar laws:

  • Karnataka passed its own anti-superstition law in 2017

  • Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have limited laws targeting black magic or witch-hunting


đŸ‘„ Criticism and Support

SupportersCritics
Rationalists, human rights groups, medical associationsSome religious conservatives, traditional healers
Say it protects the vulnerable from fraud and harmClaim it could be misused against cultural or religious traditions

Would you like a full list of banned acts under the legislation?