According to the minister, this issue raises serious concern. Rahimzoda noted that many people continue to believe in magic and witchcraft, succumbing to the influence of sorcerers and "wandering mullahs," who may incite extremist actions.
Since 2024, Tajikistan has been maintaining a registry of sorcerers and fortune-tellers, which includes both individuals engaged in such activities and their clients.
Moreover, the minister emphasized that Tajiks actively perform Umrah (minor pilgrimage), and last year this number exceeded 7,500 people. Often, they take out loans from banks for these trips. Despite the fact that magic is considered a sinful act in Islam, belief in witchcraft and fortune-telling remains widespread.
Religious expert Rustam Azizi notes that many citizens seek to turn to supernatural forces in search of solutions to their problems, whether it be health issues, family troubles, or business difficulties.
“This happens due to the low level of educational training in both scientific and religious spheres,” the specialist claims.
Although a more reasonable step would be to consult psychologists, Tajiks do not trust them. Azizi explains this by stating that local psychology, based on Soviet traditions, views problems from a physiological perspective.
According to "Asia-Plus," in Tajikistan, sorcerers and fortune-tellers are subject to criminal liability. Engaging in magic is punishable by administrative fines of up to 100 indicators for calculations — 7,800 somoni ($826) or arrest for up to 15 days. In case of repeated violations, criminal liability may ensue, which provides for a fine of up to 150,000 somoni (about $16,000) and imprisonment for a term of one to two years.
