On Monday, the Senate’s Standing Committee for Interior unanimously approved a bill proposing strict penalties for practitioners, promoters and advertisers of black magic who demanded up to seven years in prison.

The legislation also determines that individuals offering spiritual healing services must receive a license from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The committee, chairman of Senator Faisal Saleem, convened to Parliament’s House, where Senator Samina Zehri presented the bill. Following minor amendments proposed by the Ministry of Justice, the committee members adopted unanimously the draft.

According to the proposed change of Code of Criminal Procedure (CRPC), Article 297-A is introduced.

The change determines that anyone practicing black magic is included in occult rituals or promoting such activities will be exposed to 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 further states that individuals who mask as spiritual healers while participating in black magic or promoting its services will have the same sanctions. However, licensed spiritual healers registered with the Ministry of Religious Affairs will be exempt from the law.

During the committee’s discussion, PML-N senator Talal Chaudhry made a sarcastic remark on the bill against black magic and said, “As it is about Dark Arts, PTI might also be consulted”.

In response, PTI -senator Saifullah Abro clarified that he had no objection to the legislation.

The Law of Law suggested a minor revision of the draft bill that was incorporated before the committee unanimously approved the final version.

The committee also raised concerns about the absence of the most important provincial officials. Senator Saifullah Abro protested the non-Expulsion of Sindh’s Inspector General (IG) and Chief Secretary and said, “We represent the whole country. Why haven’t they appeared?”

Chairman Faisal Saleem also expressed frustration over officials who skipped meetings, especially with regard to the murder case about Mustafa Amir. He noted that the case was unnecessarily extended by linking it to drug -related charges.

Prime Minister Talal Chaudhry warned against the call of provincial officials too often and warned that it could create political tensions. “There is a fine line when dealing with provincial affairs. If our selection begins to dig too deeply, it can lead to unnecessary conflicts,” he said.