In a disturbing incident that highlights the persistent problem of superstition-driven violence in tribal regions, a 65-year-old woman was found dead under suspicious circumstances in West Singhbhum district, with her family alleging she fell victim to witchcraft accusations.
The victim, identified as Champa Devi, was discovered near her village in the tense hours of Tuesday morning. Preliminary investigations reveal the elderly woman sustained multiple injury marks on her body, pointing toward a violent end.
Family Points to Witchcraft Accusations
According to distraught family members, Champa Devi had been facing persistent harassment from certain villagers who allegedly branded her as a witch. "They blamed her for illnesses and misfortunes in the village," claimed a relative who wished to remain anonymous due to safety concerns.
The family's suspicion of witch-hunting as the motive behind the killing has sent shockwaves through the tribal-dominated community, where such superstitious beliefs occasionally lead to tragic consequences.
Police Launch Investigation
Local authorities have confirmed the recovery of the body and initiated a thorough investigation. "We are exploring all angles, including the witchcraft allegation raised by the family," stated a senior police official from West Singhbhum.
Forensic teams have been dispatched to the scene while police continue to question villagers to piece together the sequence of events that led to the elderly woman's tragic demise.
Persistent Problem in Tribal Regions
This incident brings back into focus the alarming prevalence of witch-hunting cases in Jharkhand's tribal belts, despite existing legal provisions against such practices. Several awareness campaigns and stricter law enforcement measures have been implemented over the years, yet sporadic cases continue to surface.
The local administration has promised swift action and justice for the victim's family as the community grapples with yet another superstition-related tragedy.
