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Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a stern warning to All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) chief Badruddin Ajmal, cautioning against the continuation of ‘magical healing’ practices and threatening legal action if found in violation of the law. The directive comes in the wake of the Assam assembly’s recent passage of the Assam Healing (Prevention of Evil) Practices Bill, 2024, aimed at curbing non-scientific healing modalities within the state.
The legislation, which received legislative approval last month, seeks to foster awareness among the populace regarding scientifically sound healing methodologies, safeguarding human health against purportedly malevolent practices thriving on misinformation and societal vulnerabilities. The Bill specifically targets non-scientific healing practices allegedly exploited for ulterior motives, posing a threat to public health and well-being.
Members of the AIUDF have raised objections, highlighting their party chief’s role as a spiritual leader who attracts voluntary seekers of healing. Ajmal, known for his spiritual influence, is frequently sought out by Muslims for ritualistic practices such as blowing into water bottles, believed to imbue the water with healing properties.
Chief Minister Sarma minced no words in his warning to Ajmal, asserting that any continuation of healing practices would result in legal consequences. “If he (Badruddin Ajmal) will do healing practices, he will be arrested. What I will say, will happen. I am not speaking about myself, I am speaking about the Assembly,” Sarma declared emphatically.
Refuting the notion of personal discretion, Sarma underscored the collective mandate of the Assembly, emphasizing the legislative prohibition on healing practices. “You don’t listen to Himanta Biswa Sarma’s words, but you will have to listen to what the Assembly is saying. The assembly has stopped the healing practices,” he reiterated.
Under the provisions of the Bill, offenses related to non-scientific healing practices are deemed cognizable and non-bailable. A first-time offender may face imprisonment for up to one year, extendable to three years, along with a fine of ₹50,000, or both. Subsequent convictions carry steeper penalties, including imprisonment for up to five years, a fine of ₹1 lakh, or both, signaling the gravity of the legislature’s stance on the matter.
