In a horrific incident driven by superstition, a mob brutally murdered a couple by setting them ablaze inside their home in Assam's Karbi Anglong district. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday night, was carried out by villagers who suspected the pair of practicing witchcraft.
The Night of Horror in Beloguri Munda
The tragedy unfolded at No. 1 Beloguri Munda village in the Howraghat area. According to police officials, a group of assailants first attacked Gardi Birowa (43) and his wife Mira Birowa (33) with sharp weapons inside their own house. After assaulting them, the miscreants set the dwelling on fire, leading to the couple's death in the flames.
Superstition as a Motive
Local authorities confirmed that the villagers had accused the deceased of being involved in witchcraft, blaming them for causing harm in the surrounding community. "The area is under the grip of superstition. People still believe in rumours, leading to sufferings of some," an official stated, highlighting the persistent challenge of archaic beliefs in the region.
Senior police and civil administration officials rushed to the site following the incident. A thorough investigation has been launched to identify and apprehend all those involved in the gruesome crime.
Legal Ramifications and Ongoing Menace
This case is not just a murder investigation. Witch hunting is a specific criminal offense under Assam state law, in addition to relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The incident underscores a dark social ill where unfounded accusations and mob violence continue to claim innocent lives in parts of rural India.
The police are now tasked with dismantling the rumour-driven narrative that led to this atrocity while ensuring justice for Gardi and Mira Birowa. The community remains in shock as authorities work to prevent such tragedies fueled by fear and ignorance.
