HC orders state to appoint vigilance officers within two months

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

In order to raise awareness in society and eliminate inhuman, occult practices and superstition-related activities, the Maharashtra Government enacted a law in 2013. However, as such incidents are still being reported, the Bombay High Court’s Aurangabad Bench, comprising Justice Vibha Kankanwadi and Justice Neeraj Dhote, has recently directed the state government to appoint “Vigilance Officers” across the state within two months for the effective implementation of the law. The court has also ordered the framing of rules under the new legislation.

Effective implementation issue resolved

A public interest litigation (PIL) was filed by Comrade Ganpat Bhise through Advocate Angad Kanade on behalf of the Lal Sena organisation, seeking a ban on an inhuman practice at the Mangir Baba yatra (fair) near Shendra, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, where devotees used to pierce iron hooks into their backs as an offering. In 2019, the bench had ruled to ban such practices. However, there was no clarity on which authority would ensure implementation. The present bench has now addressed this issue by issuing the above directions.

Measures taken by police

Police Sub-Inspector Nandkishor Antarap from Chikalthana police station provided details of measures taken by the police. In 2018, during the Mangir Baba fair, a notice was issued to the trust to stop the inhuman practice of inserting iron hooks into the body. Awareness campaigns were also conducted through banners, pamphlets, and gram sabhas. According to a report submitted on April 26, 2019, the practice was stopped. He assured that effective implementation of the 2013 Act would continue. The petitioner also stated that efforts were made to stop the practice and that their only demand was the appointment of vigilance officers.

Appointment of Vigilance Officers

Under Section 5 of the Act, the state government may appoint an officer not below the rank of Police Inspector through notification. Their duties include collecting evidence in cases of violation of the Act and assisting police stations. Obstructing such officers is punishable with up to three months imprisonment or a fine of ₹5,000 or both. However, the state has not yet submitted any affidavit confirming the appointment of such officers.