The Senate Standing Committee on Interior recently convened to deliberate on a proposed bill aimed at criminalizing black magic and related practices. The initiative seeks to establish strict legal consequences for those engaged in such acts or advertising their services.
Proposed Legal Measures
The bill, introduced by Senator Samina Mumtaz, advocates for a seven-year imprisonment for individuals practicing or promoting black magic. This effort reflects growing concerns about the societal harm attributed to such practices, as highlighted during the meeting chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui raised questions about defining the scope of black magic, pointing out that advertisements for such services frequently appear in local media. He cautioned that without clear boundaries, the issue could become more widespread.
Voices from the Senate
Senator Samina Mumtaz stressed the detrimental impact of black magic on society, calling for decisive action against practitioners. She underscored that such practices are inconsistent with Islamic principles and often exploit vulnerable individuals.
Senator Palwasha added that these practices frequently involve immoral and illegal activities, citing instances where clients are coerced into committing heinous acts, such as providing the blood of a murdered child.
Other senators shared personal observations and cultural anecdotes, reflecting on the challenges of addressing black magic in a legal and social context. Senator Faisal Saleem lauded the initiative as a step toward curbing exploitation and protecting citizens.
Notable Incidents Highlight the Need for Action
The discussion also touched on a high-profile incident involving Pakistani actor Feroze Khan’s family, who reported falling victim to black magic. The actor’s mother detailed disturbing experiences, including finding amulets and needles in lemons within their home, which she claimed caused severe illnesses and strained familial relationships.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Although the bill represents a significant move to confront black magic, the committee deferred further discussion to refine its provisions. A key challenge remains in clearly defining black magic to ensure enforceable laws.
The proposed legislation has sparked widespread debate, reflecting society’s collective desire to address the exploitation and harm caused by these practices. The committee’s efforts signal a commitment to tackling an issue that continues to impact countless lives.
