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

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One device is to be installed at the State Secretariat or the Mantralaya, and the other is to be installed at the State Legislature. File | Photo Credit: Prashant Nakwe

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.

Last week, the Maharashtra government issued an order giving administrative approval for the installation of ‘Kalayan’ time instruments. The cultural affairs department approved spending ₹5,48,700 for a single instrument, directing the Directorate of Archaeology to do the procurement for two instruments. One is to be installed at the State Secretariat or the Mantralaya, and the other is to be installed at the State Legislature. The State will spend close to ₹11 Lakh to install them and has termed it as the initial plan.

“These devices are 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 issued on September 4 stated. It also said that the initial plan was to install two such devices.

While not opposing the study of Indian culture or traditional timekeeping, ANS (Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti) stressed the necessity of maintaining a clear distinction between astronomy and astrology. It also raised concerns regarding the procurement, as the government resolution noted that 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.

He said 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.

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