CPI(M) Demands Immediate Resignation of 39 Maharashtra MLAs Over Superstition Scandal
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) state committee has launched a scathing and unprecedented attack on the Maharashtra government, alleging that a staggering 39 sitting Members of the Legislative Assembly are deeply involved in "tantra-mantra" and other superstitious activities linked to the controversial astrologer Ashok Kharat. The party has issued a firm and uncompromising demand for the immediate resignation of all lawmakers implicated in this scandal.
Betrayal of Constitutional Mandate Alleged
Ajit Nawale, the state secretary of the CPI(M), presented a forceful argument, claiming that by associating with such individuals, the elected representatives have committed a grave betrayal of their public office. "By surrendering to fraudulent practices like black magic and witchcraft, these MLAs have not only failed their constitutional mandate but have also indirectly provided ‘recognition' to such superstitions, leading common citizens to fall prey to exploitation," Nawale stated emphatically. The party underscored that as elected representatives, these individuals are constitutionally mandated to propagate rationalism and foster a scientific temper among the populace, a duty they have allegedly abandoned.
Demand for Transparency and Immediate Action
The CPI(M) has called for complete transparency from the state government. "The govt must make public the names of the representatives meeting Ashok Kharat, who has been accused of taking undue advantage of women seeking solutions to personal issues," Nawale added with urgency. "They should be asked to resign immediately." In a decisive move to escalate pressure, the CPI(M) has announced plans for statewide protests at all tehsil offices on April 6, mobilizing its cadre to demand accountability.
Systemic Reforms and Victim Protection Demanded
Beyond the immediate call for resignations, the party has urged the Maharashtra government to take swift and concrete steps to protect the dignity of victims. This includes the removal of video clips related to the astrologer's activities from various social media platforms to prevent further exploitation and public shaming.
Furthermore, the CPI(M) has presented a comprehensive list of systemic demands aimed at eradicating such practices:
- Establishment of dedicated anti-superstition cells in every police station across the state to ensure the strict and effective enforcement of the Maharashtra Black Magic Act.
- Creation of an independent regulatory body, as envisaged in the existing legislation, to continuously monitor, investigate, and prevent such exploitative and superstitious practices.
This controversy highlights a significant clash between modern governance principles and alleged regressive practices, putting the Maharashtra government under intense scrutiny from a major political force.
