Gujarat Assembly Passes Bill to Combat Black Magic and Inhuman Practices

The Gujarat assembly has passed a bill to curb black magic and inhuman practices, such as human sacrifice. The bill, supported by the Opposition Congress, aims to prevent exploitation by conmen. Offenders face imprisonment and fines. A vigilance officer will also be appointed to enforce the law.

In a unanimous decision, the Gujarat assembly passed a bill on Wednesday aimed at curbing black magic and superstitious practices including human sacrifice. The legislation, introduced by Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi, seeks to eradicate these inhuman and evil practices that exploit the innocent.

The bill received backing from the Opposition Congress and will now be sent to the Governor for approval. In recent months, the BJP government assured the Gujarat High Court of taking action against black magic, following a public interest litigation. Sanghavi highlighted incidents of human sacrifice and other atrocities to underline the necessity of the bill.

The new law stipulates strict penalties, including imprisonment from six months to seven years and fines between Rs 5,000 and 50,000. A vigilance officer will also be appointed to oversee the enforcement. The law bans practices like torture for exorcism, fraudulent miracles, and human sacrifice under various pretexts.

(With inputs from agencies.)