Assam Police have arrested 18 people, including four women, in connection with the brutal killing of a couple in Karbi Anglong district, allegedly after they were accused of practising witchcraft. The incident has once again highlighted the persistence of superstition-driven violence in parts of the state.
According to police officials, the crime took place on December 30 in Beloguri Munda village under the Howraghat police station area. The couple was allegedly targeted by a group of villagers who blamed them for illness and misfortune in the locality. The attackers reportedly vandalised the couple’s house and set it on fire, leading to their deaths.
Following the incident, police launched a massive investigation and conducted raids in and around the village, leading to the arrest of 18 accused so far. Senior officials said further arrests have not been ruled out as the investigation continues.
A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including murder, along with provisions of the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, which treats witch-hunting as a cognisable and non-bailable offence.
Condemning the incident, police and district authorities said such acts of violence driven by superstition have no place in a modern society. Officials stressed the need for greater awareness, education, and community outreach to eradicate deep-rooted beliefs that often lead to witch-hunting and mob violence in remote areas.
Despite a stringent law in place, Assam has continued to witness sporadic cases of witch-hunting, particularly in rural and tribal regions. The latest incident has renewed calls from civil society groups and activists for stronger implementation of the law and sustained awareness campaigns to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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