The Kerala High Court, presided over by Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice Basant Balaji, has expressed strong displeasure over the continued inaction of the state government regarding the legislation against black magic, sorcery, and other inhuman practices.
The court’s sentiments were voiced during a hearing on Monday, June 23, for a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by the Kerala Yukthivadi Sangham. The PIL urged the court to direct the State government to enact the Kerala Prevention and Eradication of Inhuman Evil Practices, Sorcery and Black Magic Bill, 2019.
It is worth noting that this bill was previously rejected by the State government as stated in the Council of Ministers’ resolution on July 5, 2023. The LDF govt is not serious on this Bill, as they believe this reform will hurt them electorally.
The Kerala Yukthivadi Sangham, a secular and rationalist organization, has been advocating for the enactment of this bill since its introduction in 2019. The bill seeks to prohibit practices that are often exploitative, harmful, and superstitious, and provides for penalties for those found guilty of engaging in such activities.
As the hearing continues, the court will consider whether it has the power to direct the State government to enact this legislation or if it must rely on the political process. The court’s action comes amidst growing concerns over the persistence of such practices in the state and the need for effective legislation to prevent and eradicate them.
