Assam govt to ban ‘magical healing’

Guwahati: In a move prioritizing public health and responsible healthcare practices, the Assam Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, approved the Assam Healing (Prevention of Evil) Practices Bill, 2024, on Saturday.

This legislation aims to eradicate harmful "magical healing" practices exploited for congenital conditions like deafness, blindness, and autism. The Chief Minister emphasized deterrent penalties for individuals engaging in such exploitative practices.

“It will prohibit such healing sessions completely and provide strong punitive action against ‘healers’ extorting the poor and downtrodden people in the name of treatment,” the CM wrote on X.

Sarma said in a social media post that the cabinet also selected 10 cities/towns for a dedicated sustainable development programme, and proposed to bring in reforms in the state municipal cadres.

To improve municipal efficiency and accountability, the government approved an amendment to the Assam Municipal Act, 1956. This amendment clearly defines roles and responsibilities for the three state municipal cadres. Additionally, the Assam Village Defence Organisation (Amendment) Bill, 2024, strives to enhance the performance and functionalities of VDOs.

Recognizing the need for streamlined administration, the cabinet approved the creation of 352 new posts in the Assam Secretariat Service and Assam Secretariat Subordinate Services. This move aims to improve operational efficiency and responsiveness within the government apparatus.

The government also sanctioned the establishment of a Wildlife Safari and Rescue Centre at Namdang Reserved Forest. This project, estimated at Rs 259 crore, will showcase the region's rich biodiversity and serve as a major tourist attraction, generating revenue and promoting responsible tourism.