A new bill introduced in the Senate on September 9, 2024, seeks to impose severe punishments on individuals involved in magic, witchcraft, or related activities in Pakistan. The proposed Criminal Laws (Amendment) Act, 2024, aims to add Section 297A to the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) of 1860.
Under this bill, anyone found practicing, promoting, or offering services related to black magic, sorcery, or witchcraft, even under the guise of spiritual healing or counseling, could face up to seven years in prison. A fine of up to one million rupees, along with a minimum sentence of six months, would also be imposed.
The bill allows an exemption for spiritual counseling conducted by licensed practitioners approved by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The proposed amendment also revises the Code of Criminal Procedure (Act V of 1898), making the offense non-bailable, triable by a session court, and punishable by imprisonment and fines.
