Islamabad:
The Senate Interior Committee unanimously approved a bill that proposed strict punishments for professionals, promoters and advertisers of black magic, which requires up to seven years in prison.
The legislation also stipulates that people who offer spiritual healing services must obtain a license from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
The committee, chaired by Senator Faisal Salem, met in Parliament House, where Senator Samina Zehri presented the bill. After minor amendments suggested by the Ministry of Law, the members of the Committee unanimously approved the draft.
According to the amendment proposed to the Code of Criminal Procedure (CRPC), article 297-A will be introduced.
The amendment stipulates that anyone who practices black magic, participates in hidden rituals, or promoting such activities will face a minimum sentence of six months and a maximum of seven years in prison, along with a fine of up to RS1 million.
The bill also establishes that people disguised as spiritual healers while participating in black magic or promoting their services will face the same sanctions. However, licensed spiritual healers registered in the Ministry of Religious Affairs will be exempt from the law.
During the discussion of the committee, PML-N senator, Talal Chaudhry, made a sarcastic comment on the bill against black magic, saying: “Since it is dark arts, maybe PTI should also be consulted.”
In response, Senator of PTI Saifullah Abro clarified that he had no objections to the legislation.
The Ministry of Law proposed a minor review of the draft bill, which was incorporated before the Committee unanimously approved the final version.
The committee also raised concerns about the absence of key provincial officials. Senator Saifullah opened the non -appearance of the inspector general of Sindh (IG) and the main secretary, saying: “We represent the entire country. Why have they not appeared?”
President Faisal Salem also expressed his frustration by the officials who omitted the meetings, particularly with respect to the case of Mustafa Amir murder. He pointed out that the case was being unnecessarily prolonged when linking it with drug -related positions.
The Minister of State, Talal Chaudhry, warned against the convene provincial officials too often, warning that he could create political tensions. “There is a thin line when it comes to provincial issues. If our committee begins to dig too deep, it could lead to unnecessary conflicts,” he said.
