1. Assam’s CM, Himanta Biswa Sarma, warns AIUDF’s Badruddin Ajmal against ‘magical healing’.
2. Sarma emphasizes the potential arrest of Ajmal if he breaches the law.
3. Ajmal’s involvement in ‘magical healing’ practices prompts a stern warning from Sarma.
Guwahati, March 07: Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a stern warning to Badruddin Ajmal, the chief of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), cautioning against engaging in ‘magical healing’ practices.
Sarma emphasized that Ajmal would face arrest if found violating the law. Last month, the Assam assembly passed the Assam Healing (Prevention of Evil) Practices Bill, 2024, which prohibits non-scientific healing methods in the state.
The legislation aims to promote awareness of scientifically-backed knowledge to safeguard human health against “evil and sinister practices” that thrive on ignorance and ill-health. It seeks to eliminate non-scientific healing practices that exploit innocent people and undermine public health.
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AIUDF legislators argue that their party chief, Badruddin Ajmal, also serves as a spiritual leader, and people voluntarily seek his ‘healing’ services.
Ajmal is often sought out by Muslims who believe that blowing into water bottles imbues the water with healing properties.
Sarma emphasized the consequences, stating, “If he (Badruddin Ajmal) engages in healing practices, he will face arrest. What I say will happen. I am not speaking on my behalf but on behalf of the Assembly.” He emphasized the Assembly’s decision to halt such healing practices.
Under the provisions of the Bill, offenses would be cognizable and non-bailable.
A first offense could result in imprisonment for up to one year, extendable to three years, and a fine of ₹50,000 or both.
Subsequent convictions could lead to imprisonment for up to five years, a fine of ₹1 lakh, or both.
