Anti-superstition body seeks appeal against Maharashtra government’s decision to install astrological time devices at state headquarters
One device is to be installed at the State Secretariat or Mantralaya and the other at the State Legislature. File | Photo credit: Prashant Nakwe
Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti, an anti-superstition body, on Friday (September 11, 2026) sought to overturn the Maharashtra government’s decision to install astrological time devices in the state secretariat and legislature at a cost of nearly ₹11 Lakh.
“The Mantralay (State Secretariat), intended for policy making and public service, should not serve as an astrological centre. Giving official status to such a facility in Vidhan Bhavan indirectly legitimizes astrological beliefs. This action is considered incompatible with Article 51(A)(h) of the Constitution of India, which enjoins the cultivation of scientific temper and niharmurism among citizens Mahahradaquirtrash Samiti member Dr. Hamid Dabholkar said.
Dr. Hamid is the son of the slain rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. His sister Mukta Dabholkar expressed concern that the move undermined Maharashtra’s pioneering role in promoting scientific temper and eradicating superstitions by legitimizing astrological ideas under the guise of science.
Last week, the Maharashtra government issued an order giving administrative approval for the installation of “Kalai” time instruments. The Department of Cultural Affairs approved an expenditure of ₹5,48,700 for one instrument and directed the Directorate of Archeology to ensure the purchase of two instruments. One is to be installed at the State Secretariat or Mantralaya and the other is to be installed at the State Legislature. The state will spend nearly ₹ 11 Lakh on their installation and termed it as the original plan.
“These devices are more than simple clocks, representing a fusion of Indian astronomical knowledge and modern technology, capable of displaying various time formats and celestial movements. In addition to standard time and GPS time, they can present planetary positions, an astrological calendar and information on important Indian cultural and national events,” said the order dated 4. It also said that the initial plan was to install two such devices.
While the ANS (Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti) does not oppose the study of Indian culture or traditional timekeeping, it has emphasized the need to maintain a clear distinction between astronomy and astrology. It also raised concerns about public procurement, as the government resolution states that the expression of interest was offered by a private entity and that it is the sole manufacturer.
“This raises questions about independent scientific and professional assessment of the utility of the device before public funds are allocated,” said Dr. Dabholkar.
He said the device links zodiac signs, constellations and almanacs to standard time, creating the misleading impression that non-scientific astrology and astronomy are interchangeable.
“While astronomy provides accurate calculations of celestial bodies, astrology’s claims about the future or personalities lack scientific validity. No official recognition should be given to initiatives mixing astrological claims with scientific knowledge in government offices,” he said.
Published – September 12, 2026 12:11 PM IST