Faith or folly?

THE horrifying incident in Gurdaspur, where a 35-year-old man lost his life at the hands of a pastor and his henchmen in the name of exorcism, is a reflection of the pervasive menace of ‘faith healers’ and ‘miracle workers’ in the region. The victim, subjected to brutal beatings, was allegedly being rid of ‘evil spirits’, an archaic belief that tragically led to his death. This incident is not merely an isolated case of misguided faith but a grim reflection of the dangerous power these pseudo-healers wield over the vulnerable.

Punjab has long been prone to such exploitative practices, where cultural and religious traditions often intermingle, creating a breeding ground for superstition. These self-proclaimed healers, masquerading as spiritual saviours, exploit the fears and insecurities of their followers, promising miraculous cures for everything — from physical ailments to mental illnesses. The problem is exacerbated by the lack of stringent legal frameworks to regulate or punish such practices. Often, these ‘miracle workers’ escape justice, shielded by the very communities they prey upon. The failure to hold them accountable not only emboldens them but also perpetuates the cycle of exploitation and abuse.

Punjab needs a comprehensive approach to combat this menace. Educational initiatives must be launched to promote scientific thinking and dissuade people from seeking help from unscrupulous elements. Communities should be empowered to distinguish between genuine spiritual guidance and harmful superstitions. Also, the state must implement stricter laws and ensure their rigorous enforcement to deter such practices. It is imperative that we, as a society, place our trust in rational, evidence-based medical and psychological care. Only then can we counter the dangerous delusions propagated by pseudo-healers. No more lives should be lost to such deadly deception.