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Guwahati:
In a chilling reminder of how deep-rooted superstition can still claim innocent lives, a couple in Assam was brutally murdered after being accused of practising witchcraft. The horrific incident took place in Karbi Anglong district, sending shockwaves across the state and reigniting concerns over witch-hunting despite strict laws banning the practice.
According to police officials, the victims were attacked by a group of villagers who believed the couple was responsible for misfortunes and illnesses in the area. Acting on these baseless suspicions, the mob allegedly stormed the couple’s house, assaulted them with sharp weapons and later set the house on fire, burning both victims alive.
By the time authorities reached the spot, the fire had already engulfed the home, leaving little chance of rescue. The brutality of the crime has left the local community shaken, with many residents struggling to come to terms with the violence carried out in the name of superstition.
Superstition Turns Deadly
Investigators say the accusations stemmed from long-standing beliefs in black magic and witchcraft, which continue to persist in some remote pockets despite growing awareness. The villagers reportedly blamed the couple for unexplained problems in the community, allowing fear and misinformation to override reason and humanity.
The incident is particularly disturbing as Assam has a strong anti-witch-hunting law, making such acts a serious criminal offence. The law clearly prohibits branding anyone as a witch and prescribes severe punishment for violence linked to such accusations.
Police Action and Arrests
Police have arrested multiple suspects believed to be part of the mob involved in the attack. Officials confirmed that further arrests are likely as the investigation progresses. The accused will face charges under murder provisions as well as sections of the anti-witch-hunting law, which carries stringent penalties.
Senior police officers stated that no leniency would be shown in such cases and warned that superstition-based violence would be dealt with firmly.
Outrage and Calls for Awareness
The killings have sparked widespread outrage, with activists and civil society groups demanding stronger enforcement of laws and greater community awareness. Many have pointed out that lack of education, limited access to healthcare and entrenched traditional beliefs often create fertile ground for witch-hunting incidents.
Experts stress that legal action alone is not enough. They call for sustained awareness campaigns, grassroots education and community engagement to dismantle harmful beliefs that continue to endanger lives.
A Grim Wake-Up Call
This tragic incident has once again exposed the deadly consequences of superstition overpowering logic and law. As Assam mourns the loss of two lives, the case stands as a grim reminder that ending witch-hunting requires not only strict policing but also a collective effort to replace fear with awareness and compassion.
