Maharashtra to discuss Anti-Superstition Bill with opposition

Maharashtra's ruling Congress-NCP combine has invited opposition leaders to discuss the proposed Anti-Superstition Bill during the Winter Session of the Maharashtra Legislature, which begins here tomorrow.
The proposed bill's ordinance was already issued by the Maharashtra government some three months ago, almost immediately after noted rationalist and anti-superstition crusader Dr Narendra Dabholkar was shot dead by assassins in Pune.
"We have invited all opposition group leaders on the first day of the Winter Session to discuss all issues threadbare across the table and will take then into confidence as well as incorporate their concrete suggestions," Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan told reporters at a press conference, here today.

"The government has an open mind on it and was aware of objections from a section of society including members of the Warkari community," Chavan said, replying to a question.
Speaking on the issue of the ecological balance of Western Ghats, Chavan said that if livelihood problems crop up, these would be addressed.
The state government has already submitted its strong objections before the Gadgil Committee.
While politely rejecting the opposition's demand for holding the Winter session for four weeks in the city since it was "inadequate", Chavan turned the tables on them, saying that most of the issues concerning Vidarbha could be taken up for discussion, if only the opposition did not disrupt proceedings and let it run smoothly.