The Odisha Prevention of Witch-Hunting Act, 2013
The Odisha Prevention of Witch-Hunting Act, 2013
General201311 sections
This Odisha law addresses harmful social traditions by criminalizing witch hunting and the use of black magic to cause physical or mental injury. It targets anyone who falsely accuses women of being witches, uses rituals for harm, or hires practitioners, applying strictly to conditions within the state. By imposing severe prison terms and fines, while providing compensation for victims, the Act seeks to eliminate these practices, protect human dignity, and ensure safety for women vulnerable to mob punishment or superstition-based violence.
- 0. Preamble
- 2. Definitions
- 3. Prohibition of witch-hunting and practising witch craft
- 4. Penalty for witch hunting
- 5. Penalty for witch craft
- 6. Penalty for witch-doctor
- 7. Enhancement of the punishment
- 8. Act not in derogation of any other law
- 9. Order for compensation
- 10. Offence to be cognizable and non-bailable-
- 11. Preventive action to be taken by the State Government-
PDF: pending for this language.