The fight against witchcraft and magic in Tajikistan has been ongoing for a long time. In recent times, these efforts have intensified, with law enforcement conducting raids to hold witches and fortune tellers accountable. To combat occultism, an additional measure has been introduced - forcing various magicians into compulsory labor.
Just in the last month, the police in Dushanbe have detained nearly 50 citizens who were involved in fortune-telling, witchcraft, and other superstitious rituals for money. Various paraphernalia for fortune-telling and "healing" were found in their homes.
Similar cases have been identified in the Khatlon region, where around 40 individuals have been prosecuted for "fraud" in the past two months. Besides fortune-telling and witchcraft, the detainees were also found to be engaging in bloodletting (hijama) in unsanitary conditions and providing talismans and amulets.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Tajikistan, in the first 10 months of 2023, the department uncovered 103 cases of administrative offenses related to witchcraft and fortune-telling. In 2022, 136 such cases were registered.
The fight against sorcerers in Tajikistan has long been supported by the law, with penalties in place for such actions. In 2008, practicing witchcraft carried administrative liability with fines. Since 2015, criminal punishment of up to 7 years of imprisonment has been introduced for such illegal practices.
The Tajik clergy also supports the fight against the "unclean force." In Islam, magic and witchcraft are considered one of the greatest sins, and those practicing witchcraft are referred to as disbelievers and demons in the Quran.
Despite the sinfulness and state-imposed bans, fortune-telling and magic remain popular among the people, and the number of individuals engaging in these activities does not decrease in the country.
According to law enforcement representatives, the low awareness of some superstitious individuals and their exploitation by unscrupulous citizens is the reason why such illegal activities continue to thrive.
Mekhrigul Ablezova, a professor and sociologist at the American University of Central Asia (AUCA), believes that the prevalence of consulting witches and fortune tellers in Tajikistan, as in all Central Asian countries, can be explained by historical, sociocultural, and gender aspects.
In Central Asian countries, deeply rooted traditions and beliefs exist that predate the introduction of Islam. Practices associated with witchcraft and fortune-telling may have cultural significance that persists despite religious teachings.
Ablezova also points out that dependence on superstitions and magical thinking can hinder critical thinking and rational decision-making, leading to incorrect life choices.
Sociologists believe that combating the dependence on witches and fortune tellers requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond legal prohibitions and law enforcement practices.
"Firstly, educational and enlightenment programs promoting critical thinking and providing information on the cultural, historical, and gender aspects of these practices are necessary. It is essential to openly discuss the psychological and social factors underlying belief in witchcraft and fortune-telling," comments Ablezova.
Margarita Hegay, a Tajik sociologist, agrees that in the fight against witchcraft, informational campaigns in the media and other communication resources presenting information in a clear and accessible language are crucial.
Moreover, strengthening social support systems, including access to healthcare, counseling services, and public support networks, can reduce the vulnerability of individuals.
"Furthermore, developing dialogue and cooperation between authorities, religious leaders, public figures, and human rights organizations can lead to more detailed discussions on the compatibility of traditional beliefs with modern values, enabling people to make informed choices regarding their health and well-being," concludes Ablezova.
