Laws to prohibit black magic
Several states have passed laws to prevent practices of black magic and human sacrifice
Many parts of India still see practices of black magic and other superstitious rituals like human sacrifice. Such incidents are not only limited to rural parts of India but also occur in urban areas. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (2022), there were eight cases of murder in India where the motive was “Child/Human Sacrifice.” The cities of Delhi and Kerala saw one case each. Several states, such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, Odisha, and Rajasthan, have passed laws to ban superstitious rituals that lead to such instances. The latest addition to this list is Gujarat, where the state assembly passed the Gujarat Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil, and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Bill, 2024, in August 2024. This law comes in the backdrop of a public interest litigation (PIL) filed at the Gujarat High Court, demanding that the state end black magic and other superstitious rituals like human sacrifice.
Key features of the Act include:
Purpose of the Act
The Act aims to protect people from exploitation rooted in ignorance and superstition. It promotes social awareness and seeks to create a safe social environment free from harmful practices.
Prohibited Practices
The Act prohibits human sacrifice, black magic, and other Aghori practices. These practices include:
Physical and psychological abuse under the guise of expelling ghosts or witches.
Financial exploitation by displaying "miracles."
Coercion into dangerous practices for supernatural favors.
Human sacrifice and inhuman acts for material gain or resources.
Intimidation using claims of supernatural powers.
It prohibits the performance, promotion, advertisement, or encouragement of such practices. Any violation of these provisions, whether directly or through another person, constitutes an offense under the Act.
Penalties
Violations of the Act can result in:
Imprisonment for a term not less than six months, extendable to seven years, and fines ranging from five thousand rupees to fifty thousand rupees.
Vigilance Officers
The Act establishes Vigilance Officers with powers to:
Investigate and prevent violations of the Act.
Gather evidence for prosecution.
Assist police stations in handling cases.
These officers will be of a rank not below Police Inspector and have the authority to:
Enter and search suspected premises.
Seize materials related to prohibited practices.
Examine and seize relevant documents or objects.
Exemptions
The Act clarifies that it does not apply to:
Traditional forms of worship, religious rites, celebrations, and festivals.
Practices like Vastushastra, astrology, and advice regarding groundwater.
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