In a significant move to curb superstitious and violent crimes, the Kerala High Court has proposed the creation of a special enforcement cell to tackle offences related to black magic, witchcraft, and sorcery. The suggestion came during a hearing on Tuesday, where the court emphasized the need for immediate deterrent action while the state government works on drafting specific legislation.
Court's Directive During Petition Hearing
A bench comprising Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice V M Syam Kumar put forward the suggestion while considering a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by the Kerala Yukthivadhi Sangham. The organization had sought a special law to prohibit black magic and other inhumane practices prevalent in society.
The court observed that establishing a dedicated cell under the framework of existing laws would act as a strong deterrent. It would send a clear message against such activities, even as the administrative machinery completes the process for a new bill. The bench orally remarked that the state should seriously consider this interim measure.
State's Ongoing Feasibility Study
During the proceedings, the state attorney informed the court that the government had already constituted a three-member expert committee to examine the feasibility of enacting a dedicated law. This committee includes notable figures: former law secretary and district judge Sasidharan Nair, former director general of police Jacob Punnoose, and Kerala State Waqf Board chairman M K Sakkeer.
The panel was given three months to submit its detailed report. At Tuesday's hearing, the state counsel indicated that two months remain before the study's completion. The court's suggestion for a special cell is intended to bridge this gap and initiate proactive enforcement.
Background: The Pathanamthitta Case Catalyst
The PIL was originally filed in 2022, following the shocking revelation of the twin human sacrifice case in Pathanamthitta district. That gruesome incident brought the issue of barbaric practices conducted under the guise of black magic and ritualistic sorcery into sharp public focus, prompting calls for stringent legal action.
The High Court's latest intervention underscores the judiciary's push for a multi-pronged strategy: immediate enforcement through a specialized cell and long-term prevention through comprehensive legislation. The state government is now expected to respond to the court's suggestion formally in the upcoming hearings.
