December 13, 2007
Source: BBC News
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7141658.stm
The lower house of parliament in Tajikistan has endorsed a bill to try to tackle what it describes as fortune-telling and witchcraft.
Those found engaging in superstitious activities could be fined $200 (£98).
Belief in the occult is widespread in many former Soviet societies. The Tajik authorities say those claiming occult powers are charlatans.
The bill still needs the upper house of parliament and the president to approve it, but this is considered a formality.