Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah reiterates commitment over anti-superstition Bill

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday reiterated his government's commitment to enact anti-superstition Bill in the state.

Speaking at an event here, he said, "...wiping out superstition is very important as those with vested interest gets an opportunity to exploit it. So they too on their part contribute towards growth of superstitious beliefs." Stressing on the need to enlighten and educate people over the issue, Siddaramaiah said that his government had to face stiff resistance for the proposal to bring in a law that prevents superstitious practices.

"We may have to face opposition from vested interests, but we are ready for it," he added. Soon after the murder of rationalist MM Kalburgi, a group of writers and family members of Narendra Dabholkar and Govind Pansare, who were killed under similar circumstances, had urged the Chief Minister to proceed with the Karnataka Prevention of Superstitious Practices Bill that was shelved following stiff opposition.

The draft Karnataka Prevention of Superstitious Practices Bill, 2013 was prepared by Centre for the Study of Social Exclusion and Inclusive Policy (CSSEIP) of National Law School of India University, on the invitation of state government. BJP condemning certain provisions in the Bill had said the government has no right to infringe upon the beliefs of Hindus.