Senate Committee Approves Bill to Crack Down on Black Magic Practices

The Senate Standing Committee on Interior has unanimously approved a bill to impose strict penalties for black magic, mandating up to seven years in prison. The legislation also requires spiritual healers to obtain licenses. The move aims to regulate spiritual practices and curb fraudulent activities.

In a decisive move, the Senate Standing Committee on Interior has given unanimous approval to a bill that imposes stringent penalties on those practicing or promoting black magic, The Express Tribune reports. The legislation prescribes imprisonment of up to seven years and mandates that spiritual healing services be licensed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Led by Senator Faisal Saleem, the committee convened at Parliament House to deliberate on the bill, which was presented by Senator Samina Zehri. After incorporating recommendations from the Ministry of Law and making minor amendments, the committee members backed the bill aimed at regulating spiritual practices and mitigating black magic-related fraud.

The bill introduces Article 297-A to the Code of Criminal Procedure, setting firm penalties for engaging in occult rituals or advertising such services. Offenders face a prison term ranging from six months to seven years and fines up to PKR 1 million. The legislation also targets fraudulent spiritual healers not licensed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

(With inputs from agencies.)