Opposing the proposed Karnataka Prevention of Superstitious Practices Bill, 2013, the BJP threatened to stall the winter session of the Legislature if the State government tries to move the bill.
BJP State unit President Prahlad Joshi accused the Siddaramaiah government of trying to crush the beliefs and religious practices of Hindus in the name of fighting superstition.
“We will not allow the session to run if the government tables it (the bill),” he said.
He challenged Siddaramaiah to include superstitions practised by non-Hindu communities in the proposed bill.
“There are so many superstitions practised by non-Hindu communities. Let Siddaramaiah government include these practices in the proposed bill before tabling it in both Houses of the Legislature,” Joshi told reporters after the BJP Core Committee meeting
Under the proposed bill, promoters of black magic and other such practices, who are exploiting people, would be brought to book. The bill also proposes the setting up of Karnataka Anti-Superstition Authority at the State-level and vigilance committees on superstitious practices at district-level for prevention and control of superstitious practices and protection of those exposed to their ill effects.
“The proposed bill hurts Hindu sentiments,” Joshi said.
He said there is no need for the government to enact a law for bringing changes to the Hindu society as Hindus have been giving up irrational superstitious practices from time to time.
“Reforms come naturally to Hindus. There is no need for enacting laws to bring changes,” he remarked.
Modi Rally: 3.42 L Registrations
To questions about preparations for BJP’s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi’s rally in Bangalore on November 17, Joshi said so far 3.42 lakh people have registered by paying `10 to attend the rally.
He also said eight trains have been booked so far for bringing people to the rally from various parts of the State.
On providing fool-proof security to Modi, he said the Centre should provide Special Protection Group (SPG) cover to Modi.
“If there are no provisions under the law, the Centre can bring in an ordinance,” he said.