Islamabad, January 19, 2026 – The Senate on Monday gave its approval to a landmark bill amending the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), introducing strict penalties for witchcraft, black magic, and sorcery, including imprisonment of up to seven years and fines reaching Rs1 million.
Under the newly approved legislation, a new Section 297A will be inserted into the PPC to specifically address acts involving magic, sorcery, witchcraft, and their promotion. The law stipulates that individuals found practicing or publicizing such activities may face six months to seven years in prison, along with substantial financial penalties.
The bill explicitly targets those who practice, advertise, or offer black magic and sorcery services, including acts carried out under the guise of spiritual healing or counselling, aiming to curb exploitation and deception. In addition to imprisonment, offenders may be liable to fines of up to Rs1 million.
However, the legislation clarifies that the new provision does not apply to licensed spiritual counselling, provided such services are conducted under authorization from a competent regulatory authority.
Beyond criminal law reforms, the Senate also approved a series of key legislative measures covering multiple sectors. These included the Mental Health Amendment Bill, moved by Senator Samina Mumtaz of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), as well as amendments to the Pakistan Nursing Council and Pakistan Medical and Dental Council laws, presented by PPP Senator Shahadat Awan.
Additionally, the upper house passed legislation related to the federal curriculum and textbooks, along with the Civil Servants Amendment Bill, underscoring a broad legislative push spanning governance, education, and public welfare.