Woman and Infant Killed in Witchcraft-Related Mob Attack in West Singhbhum
A horrific incident of mob violence has shaken Kalaiya village in West Singhbhum district, Jharkhand, resulting in the tragic deaths of a 31-year-old woman and her one-year-old son. The attack, which occurred late on Tuesday night, was allegedly motivated by suspicions of witchcraft, highlighting a persistent and deadly superstition in the region.
Details of the Fatal Attack
According to police reports, the victims were identified as Jyoti Sinku and her infant child. The mob, consisting of villagers, targeted the family at their home under the Kumardungi police station limits. The woman's husband, Kolhan Sinku, aged 40, sustained severe burn injuries but survived the assault.
In his police complaint, Kolhan described a terrifying scene where the crowd accused his wife of practicing witchcraft. Despite his attempts to calm the situation and suggest resolving the matter through the village panchayat the next morning, the mob became violent. One assailant, armed with a gallon of petrol, doused the couple and set them ablaze amidst the chaos. The baby, who was in Jyoti's arms, was also engulfed in flames, leading to the immediate deaths of both mother and child.
Police Response and Arrests
Following the incident, law enforcement authorities have taken swift action. Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the attack: Rasika Birua (29), Jena Birua (19), Sona Birua (36), and Delka Sinku (20). A manhunt is currently underway for three additional suspects who remain at large.
West Singhbhum Superintendent of Police Amit Renu confirmed the arrests, stating that the accused were apprehended from their homes. He also addressed allegations that the police station gates were locked at night, refuting the claim and explaining that police received information in the morning and promptly dispatched a team to the crime scene.
Background and Investigation
Preliminary investigations by police reveal that the attack may have been triggered by the recent death of a relative of Kolhan Sinku from a prolonged illness. Family members allegedly blamed Jyoti for the death, and rumors had been circulating in the village for days accusing her of witchcraft. This tragic event underscores the dangerous impact of such superstitions in rural communities.
Medical Condition of Survivor
Kolhan Sinku, the surviving husband, is currently undergoing treatment at the district hospital. He has sustained over 60% burn injuries and is in critical condition. Civil surgeon and Chaibasa sadar hospital in-charge, Dr. Bharti Mizn, indicated that he will be shifted to MGMMCH for further specialized care.
The incident has sparked outrage and calls for stricter enforcement against witchcraft-related violence, with authorities emphasizing the need for community awareness and legal action to prevent such tragedies in the future.
