In brief
A recent bill passed in Pakistan targets black magic and occult services, drawing criticism from astrologers who fear losing their livelihoods due to vague legal definitions.
In Pakistan, a growing movement to legislate against occult practices has sent ripples of concern among astrologers and spiritual practitioners. The Senate has recently approved a bill that aims to penalize a broad range of supernatural services with prison terms of up to seven years and hefty fines, sparking fears within the community that they may be unjustly targeted. One long-standing astrologer, Shahbaz Anjum, has spent nearly a quarter of a century offering guidance to clients from all walks of life within the confines of the Pearl Continental Hotel in Lahore. Anjum, who emphasizes that he does not engage in black magic, feels compelled to clarify his services in light of the proposed regulations. “I help people,” he states with conviction. “That’s all. I don’t claim to heal, and I certainly don’t do black magic.” The concerns among practitioners are multifaceted, as the law is criticized for its ambiguous terminology. Many are worried that its vague definitions may lead to a broad application that could encompass various legitimate forms of spiritual guidance. Moreover, there is apprehension that this crackdown could threaten not just the livelihood of those who practice astrology but also the cultural beliefs and traditions that have existed in Pakistan for generations.As the government pushes ahead with legislation that some believe threatens personal and spiritual freedoms, the fate of astrologers hangs in the balance, compelling them to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape of legal challenges. The implications of such laws could have far-reaching effects on the social fabric of the country, as citizens question the balance between personal belief and state control.
