Authorities in Keonjhar recently dismantled a memorial that honored innocent women killed on suspicion of witchcraft. This action has sparked strong resentment among local residents who valued the monument's role in fighting a deep-rooted social evil.
Police Cite Space Constraints for Removal
Police officials justified the dismantling by pointing to a shortage of space on the Superintendent of Police office premises. They stated the memorial was shifted to the police reserve line area due to these constraints.
Local Community Voices Strong Criticism
Residents strongly criticized the police decision. They argued the memorial served a vital purpose in raising awareness against witch-hunting, a persistent problem in tribal-dominated Keonjhar district.
"The initiative aimed to change public perception, prevent witch-hunting, and restore dignity to victims and their families," said P N Mohanty, a local businessman. He explained that families often faced social ostracization based on mere suspicion of practicing black magic.
Memorial Details and Historical Significance
The memorial featured a seven-foot granite statue of a woman. Former Director General of Police R P Sharma inaugurated it on February 27, 2019, in the presence of then-SP J N Pankaj.
Names of several witch-hunt victims were inscribed on the memorial wall. It stood as a stark reminder of the brutal consequences of superstition and blind faith. The district police originally erected it as part of their effort to sensitize people against branding anyone as a witch.
Political and Tribal Leaders Express Shock
Former MLA and tribal leader Subarna Naik expressed shock at the dismantling. "The memorial was strategically placed at the SP's office to draw visitors' attention," Naik said. "It served as an important awareness tool. We are astonished why such a unique memorial was removed."
Tribal leader Sanjay Giri from Banspal echoed these sentiments. He demanded the memorial's reinstallation. Locals alleged the dismantled statue now lies neglected in a corner of the reserve ground.
Awareness Role During Peak Witch-Hunting Cases
Giri emphasized the memorial's crucial role during periods of high witch-hunting cases in Keonjhar. "Awareness measures like this memorial played a key role in containing the menace," he stated.
Additional Superintendent of Police Snehasish Sahu reiterated the space issue. "The memorial was shifted to the police reserve line premises due to lack of space at the district police office where it was initially built," Sahu explained.
The removal has ignited a broader conversation about preserving symbols of social reform. Many residents view the memorial not just as stone and names, but as a testament to ongoing efforts against harmful superstitions.
