On 21 April 2025, Tamil Nadu’s Law Minister S. Regupathy turned down a proposal from DMK MLA N. Ezhilan, who had urged the government to introduce a dedicated law aimed at eradicating superstitions in the state. Speaking in the Assembly, the Minister argued that enacting such a law would neither eliminate one belief nor safeguard another.
He emphasized that individuals are entitled to their personal beliefs, noting that what one person may see as superstition could be regarded as religious faith by another. “Under the Constitution, everyone has the right to protect their own beliefs. It’s not feasible to pass a law that either bans a belief or upholds another,” Regupathy stated.
Addressing Ezhilan’s concerns, the Minister added, “There is nothing wrong with adhering to one’s own principles. But we must consider whether imposing them on others is justifiable or acceptable.”
Earlier in the debate, Ezhilan cited Article 51A(h) of the Indian Constitution, which calls upon citizens to cultivate scientific temper, humanism, and a spirit of inquiry and reform. He questioned whether the State would consider bringing in legislation to eliminate superstitions and assist people in meeting these constitutional responsibilities.
(With inputs from The Hindu)
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