Woman Kidnapped and Killed Over Witchcraft Allegations in Gumla

Woman’s Body Found in Well After Abduction in Gumla

Key Points:

• Woman kidnapped and killed on witchcraft accusations
• Broken bangles and firewood bundle found in the jungle
• Family blames police inaction for repeated attacks

GUMLA – In a shocking incident, a 45-year-old woman, C Devi, was kidnapped and killed in Gumla district, Jharkhand, over witchcraft allegations. Her body was discovered in a well four days after she went missing, creating panic in the Murkunda Kumhar Toli village.

C Devi had gone to the forest to collect firewood on December 12 but never returned. Broken bangles and a bundle of firewood were found at the site. Her son, Sunil Mahato, filed a complaint at Gumla police station, suspecting villagers who had repeatedly accused his mother of witchcraft.

Family Alleges Prior Attacks

Sunil Mahato revealed that their family had faced multiple attacks from certain villagers over witchcraft claims. Eight months ago, some residents attempted to kill his mother by entering their house. At the time, she was away, which saved her life. Sunil blamed police inaction, claiming that no action was taken against the accused despite an earlier complaint.

“The tragedy could have been avoided if the police had acted earlier,” Sunil stated. He emphasized that his mother faced constant harassment from some relatives and villagers.

Superstition Still Rampant

Murkunda Kumhar Toli village, situated 20 kilometers from Gumla, remains gripped by superstition. Many residents believe in witchcraft, leading to frequent violence against women. Despite laws prohibiting such practices, awareness campaigns are scarce. In Jharkhand, the Witchcraft Prevention Act of 2001 criminalizes such actions, but enforcement remains weak.

C Devi’s husband, Sitaram Mahato, works as a laborer in Himachal Pradesh due to their poor financial condition. Upon hearing the tragic news, he began his journey back home.

The incident highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to tackle superstition and ensure police accountability.