[Answered] Examine the adequacy of existing laws in India to combat superstitious practices and exploitative religious activities. Should there be a national anti-superstition law? Justify your answer. (250 words)

The recent stampede at a religious congregation in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, resulting in more than 120 deaths, has reignited the debate on whether India has adequate legislation to address exploitative religious and superstitious practices.

Adequacy of Existing Laws in India

• Limited Scope: India lacks a central law solely targeting superstition. The Indian Penal Code (IPC) punishes crimes like murder (including human sacrifice) but doesn’t address exploiting superstitions for personal gain.
• State-specific Acts: Karnataka Prevention and Eradication of Inhuman Evil Practices and Black Magic Act, 2017 & Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Black Magic Act, 2013, criminalize specific acts like using magic for ailments or human sacrifice. However, they are limited to their respective state jurisdictions.
• Other Provisions: The Drugs and Magic Remedies Act, of 1954, discourages false claims about magical cures. The Constitution promotes scientific temper, but enforcement is weak.

National Anti-Superstition Law: Pros and Cons

• Stronger Deterrence: A national law would establish a clearer framework and harsher punishments, deterring exploitation.
• Uniformity: A national approach ensures consistent application across the country, plugging loopholes in state-specific laws.
• Empowering Victims: A clear legal framework can empower victims to report crimes and seek justice.
• Defining Superstition: What constitutes a superstition can be subjective. Defining it too broadly could infringe on religious freedom.
• Misuse: The law could be misused to target legitimate religious practices or traditional beliefs.
• Enforcement Challenges: Effective enforcement requires trained law enforcement personnel and robust social awareness campaigns.

Justification for a National Law

• Protecting Vulnerable Groups: A national law can effectively shield vulnerable groups, particularly women, from violence and exploitation based on superstitious beliefs.
• Promoting Scientific Temper: The law can act as a catalyst for promoting scientific thinking and critical reasoning, challenging baseless beliefs.
• Standardization and Awareness: A national framework can raise awareness, standardize procedures, and encourage better enforcement across states.

Conclusion

While challenges exist, a well-crafted national anti-superstition law, coupled with community outreach and education, can significantly curb exploitation and promote a more rational society.