Pakistan Senate Moves to Curb Occult Practices with New Bill

The Senate Standing Committee on Interior has unanimously approved a bill imposing strict penalties on black magic practitioners, including up to seven years imprisonment. The legislation mandates licenses for spiritual healers and aims to regulate spiritual practices while addressing fraudulent activities linked to the occult.

In a decisive legislative session, the Senate Standing Committee on Interior approved a bill targeting black magic practices, mandating up to seven years of imprisonment. The measure requires spiritual healers to be licensed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs to prevent fraud.

Led by Senator Faisal Saleem, the committee examined the bill, with input from the Ministry of Law, before agreeing on its provisions. The bill adds Article 297-A to the CrPC, imposing fines and imprisonment on those involved in occult practices.

Discussions briefly diverted with remarks from PML-N Senator Talal Chaudhry towards PTI representatives. However, the focus remained on ensuring provincial cooperation and addressing potential political tensions from the involvement of high-ranking officials.

(With inputs from agencies.)