Diwakar Raote poses a constitutional predicament on Anti- Blind Faith Bill

Shri Diwakar Raote, a Shiv Sena MLA has objected to the ‘Eradication of Black Magic and Observance of Evil Practices Bill, 2005’ passed by Maharashtra Government as it is against the Indian Constitution. As such, no discussions on the same could be held in the State Legislative Council (SLC). Shri Chandrakant Handore, the Minister holding the portfolio of Social Justice presented the Bill in SLC. Shri Shivajirao Deshmukh, the Chairman, SLC permitted Shri Raote to present his point before SLC in the context of Indian Constitution. Adv. Gurunath Kulkarni and Vasant Pawar, MLAs of the ruling party tried to interrupt Shri Raote resulting in wastage of 25 minutes of the session. Later, Shri Raote said that under Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, every citizen has a right to follow customs and traditions as prescribed in one’s religion. The State Govt. has therefore, no right to pass such an Act. The State Govt. can not stop observance of customs and traditions and take away people’s right to follow their religion. Shri Raote’s presentation would continue even on the next day. Shri Raote also proposes to seek views of the Advocate General (AG) on his point and only after verdict of AG, the fate of the Bill will be decided.