In an era of science and rationality, a comprehensive law is essential to criminalise black magic practices and prevent psychological, physical, and financial abuse in Jammu and Kashmir and across India
In an age of science, technology, and rational thought, it is deeply disturbing that the ancient and dark practice of black magic continues to persist in many corners of our society. What is more alarming is that despite numerous incidents of psychological exploitation, physical harm, financial fraud, and even deaths associated with this practice, there is no strong and specific law in many parts of India, including Jammu and Kashmir, to deal with it firmly.
Black magic, also known as “Sihr/Jadu”, is not just superstition—it is a tool often used by unscrupulous individuals to exploit the fear, vulnerability, and beliefs of innocent people. From fake healers claiming to remove “evil spirits” to those performing dangerous rituals causing serious harm, black magic remains a silent menace.
What is Black Magic?
Black magic, also known as witchcraft, is the usage of supernatural power for evil and selfish purposes and to perform malicious practices to destroy someone physically, mentally or financially.
It can be done using the victim’s hair, clothes, photo or looking directly into the eyes.
Real-Life Consequences
Many cases have come to light where families have been ruined financially or psychologically by so-called “Peers” or “Babas.” Women are especially targeted under the guise of being “possessed”, leading to inhumane treatment, abuse, or even being labelled witches. In some tragic instances, people have died during dangerous exorcism rituals or have taken their own lives due to mental trauma caused by black magic threats.
Despite such cases, there is a legal void. BNS Section 318 (cheating) or 299 (hurting religious sentiments) are often used in related cases, but they are inadequate and fail to address the core issue directly. Only a few Indian states like Bihar, Maharashtra and Karnataka have enacted specific anti-superstition or anti-black magic laws.
The Ruling On Black Magic In Islam
Islam categorises black magic (Sihr/Jadu) as a major sin leading to shirk. During black magic rituals, practitioners often chant incantations praising spirits or jinn, which clearly associates others with Allah, a grave act of shirk.
In a hadith narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim, the Prophet Mohammad (SAW) warned of seven destructive sins:
“Avoid the seven great destructive sins.” The people enquire, “O Allah’s Apostle! What are they? “He said, “To join others in worship along with Allah, to practice sorcery, to kill the life which Allah has forbidden except for a just cause, (according to Islamic law), to eat up Riba (usury), to eat up an orphan’s wealth, to give back to the enemy and fleeing from the battlefield at the time of fighting, and to accuse, chaste women, who never even think of anything touching chastity and are good believers.
Allah (SWT) declares in the Qur’an that anyone committing shirk earns a grave sin and will face severe punishment. This is outlined in Surah An-Nisa, Ayah 48, which states:
Indeed, Allah does not forgive associating others with Him in worship, but forgives anything else of whoever He wills. And whoever associates others with Allah has indeed committed a grave sin.
Countries Having Laws Against Black Magic
Several foreign countries have enacted strict laws against black magic to curb exploitation, fraud, and violence. In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, practising witchcraft or sorcery is a serious criminal offence under Sharia and penal codes, often resulting in imprisonment or even the death penalty. Tanzania and Papua New Guinea have taken legal steps to address witchcraft-related violence, especially against vulnerable groups like the elderly or people with albinism. Nigeria criminalises deceptive spiritual practices under its criminal code, while South Africa uses the Witchcraft Suppression Act to curb harmful magical practices. These laws aim to protect people from abuse while managing the cultural sensitivities around traditional beliefs.
Black Magic In Kashmir
Black magic is increasingly prevalent in Kashmir, with disturbing videos surfacing almost daily showing Tawiz with photos in graveyards and photos inside fish. Women flock outside self-styled babas and magicians. These gatherings often involve rituals aimed at harming others, driven by jealousy, personal disputes, or blind faith. Despite the growing concern, there is little legal oversight, allowing such exploitative practices to flourish unchecked and impact the mental well-being and social harmony of the region.
The Need For Legislative Action In Jammu & Kashmir
It is high time our elected representatives in the assembly or legislature take this issue seriously. There must be a dedicated, comprehensive law that:
- Defines black magic and related practices as criminal offences
- Punishes those who practice or promote black magic
- Protects vulnerable individuals from being victimised
- Provides mechanisms for complaint, investigation, and victim support
Such a law will not be an attack on faith or culture—it will be a step toward protecting people from fraud, abuse, and in some cases, serious mental and physical harm.
Conclusion
It is pertinent to remember that bringing legislation to deal with this social issue shall only mean half the battle is won.
A meaningful reform will need to increase awareness among the masses through information campaigns and by roping in community and religious leaders to debunk the myths surrounding such practices.
Society must move forward with the light of awareness, education, and legal protection. Belief should never become a tool for exploitation. Just as we have laws against human trafficking and domestic violence, we need one to criminalise black magic and safeguard citizens.
Aarif Maqbool
co******************@***oo.com