Sat Mar 28 07:58:41 UTC 2026: ### Dabholkar’s Son Urges Caution on Black Magic Act Implementation Despite Government’s “Good Intent” in Rape Case

The Story:

Hamid Dabholkar, son of the late anti-superstition activist Dr. Narendra Dabholkar, expressed cautious optimism regarding the Devendra Fadnavis government’s commitment to implementing the Black Magic Act, enacted in 2013. While acknowledging the government’s “good intent” in the Ashok Kharat rape case involving a self-styled godman, Dabholkar emphasized that sustained and comprehensive action is necessary to demonstrate genuine seriousness in tackling the issue of superstition and exploitation by fraudulent spiritual leaders. He highlighted the lack of progress in framing implementation rules for the Act and establishing dedicated police cells and tribunals.

Key Points:

  • Hamid Dabholkar acknowledges the government’s “intent” in the Ashok Kharat case but calls for consistent action.
  • He criticizes the delayed framing of rules for the 2013 Black Magic Act.
  • Dabholkar points out the inaction on a list of self-styled godmen provided to the police.
  • He notes the unimplemented announcement of superstition-related cells in every police station.
  • Dabholkar highlights the absence of tribunals to address false claims on social media, despite Supreme Court guidelines.

Key Takeaways:

  • The implementation of the Black Magic Act in Maharashtra remains slow and incomplete, despite its enactment in 2013.
  • Public perception of the government’s commitment to combating superstition is heavily influenced by consistent and widespread action, not just isolated cases.
  • The lack of infrastructure (police cells, tribunals) hinders the effective enforcement of the Act.
  • The delay in framing rules for the Act suggests a lack of prioritization by the government.
  • Exploitation by self-styled godmen remains a pervasive issue in Maharashtra, with limited visible government intervention.

    Read More