Reiterating that his government was keen on introducing an anti-superstition legislation, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday said the aim was to stop exploitation in the name of superstition and blind belief.
Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the ‘Vishwamanava Day’ celebrations to mark poet Kuvempu’s 111th birth anniversary in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah said despite steadfast attempts by several reformers, society was still burdened with superstitious and blind beliefs.
Stressing that his government was not attempting to infringe upon an individual’s religious beliefs or faith, Siddaramaiah said the proposed bill would work towards instilling a scientific temper in people.
“Superstition is more prevalent in the weaker sections of society, owing to lack of socio-economic equality. Where there is exploitation, there is servitude, and where there is servitude, there is superstition. As long as we don’t work towards equality, society will not become dynamic. As long as there is no scientific temper in society, Kuvempu’s message will not bear fruit,” he said.
Siddaramaiah said Kuvempu’s ‘Vishwamanava’ (global citizen) concept was not restrictive as it was relevant to all generations. The poet had always given thrust to education and it is ironic that even the educated masses indulge in superstitious practices, he said.
“Even today many people do not step out of their houses during certain time saying it is an inauspicious hour (rahu kala).
Several members of the Assembly have come up to me and asked me why the session was started during rahu kala. At times, they have even attributed the din in the House to this blind belief,” he said.
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