Bahrain Shura Council inquires about exorcism regulation

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain Shura Council member Jawad Abdullah Hussein has posed a question to the Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Endowments, His Excellency Nawaf bin Mohammed Al Maawda, regarding the regulation of the practice of exorcism and ways to confront incorrect practices by unqualified individuals.

This inquiry arises from the prevalence of erroneous practices and crimes committed by individuals impersonating exorcists, often masking sorcerers and charlatans.

Hussein inquired about the Ministry’s plan, if any, to regulate the practice of exorcism by establishing guidelines and conditions for its practice, licensing practitioners, and implementing monitoring and supervision mechanisms.

He sought clarification on the key aspects and details of this plan and the obstacles preventing the ministry from effectively regulating exorcism.

Furthermore, Hussein sought clarification on the measures taken by the ministry to combat incorrect practices by unqualified individuals who exploit exorcism for personal gain.

He also questioned whether the ministry has a coordinating and cooperative role with the Ministry of Interior in addressing those who exploit religion in the name of exorcism for fraudulent activities, sorcery, and witchcraft. Hussein emphasized in his query that legitimate exorcism treatment has proven beneficial for many physical and psychological ailments.

However, he highlighted the prevalence of incorrect practices, underscoring the need for regulations supervised by specialists in Islamic law under the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Endowments. Such regulations, he stressed, would fill the regulatory gap for exorcism and ensure the protection of citizens, aligning with several Arab countries.