In a horrific incident highlighting the persistent grip of superstition, a couple was brutally killed after a mob allegedly set their house on fire over suspicions of practicing witchcraft in Assam's Karbi Anglong district. Police confirmed the attack on Wednesday, revealing that the tragic event unfolded on Tuesday night.
The Night of Horror in No. 1 Beloguri Munda Village
The attack took place at No. 1 Beloguri Munda village in the Howraghat area. According to police reports, a group of villagers forcefully entered the home of the couple, assaulted them, and then set the structure ablaze. The ferocity of the attack resulted in both victims dying on the spot, with no chance of escape.
The deceased have been identified as Gardi Birowa (43) and his wife, Mira Birowa (33). The primary motive behind this heinous crime, as stated by the police, was the villagers' belief that the couple was responsible for bringing misfortune to the area through witchcraft.
Police Response and Legal Action Initiated
Senior officials from the police and the district administration swiftly visited the crime scene to assess the situation. An investigation has been launched with the immediate goal of tracking down and arresting all individuals involved in the mob violence.
In a significant legal move, authorities have invoked multiple charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) in this case. This underscores the seriousness with which the law enforcement is treating this crime of vigilantism and murder.
The Enduring Scourge of Superstition-Fueled Violence
An official familiar with the case pointed out that despite witch-hunting being a punishable offence under Assam's specific laws, deep-rooted superstition and rampant misinformation continue to fuel such brutal crimes in the region. This incident is a stark reminder of the challenges in eradicating harmful traditional practices through legal measures alone.
The killing of the Birowa couple has sent shockwaves through the community and has once again brought the issue of witch-hunting and mob justice in parts of rural India into sharp focus. It raises urgent questions about the need for sustained awareness campaigns and educational initiatives alongside strict law enforcement.
