An elderly man was set on fire over suspected sorcery and is in critical condition.
In an incident exposing the dangerous impact of superstitions and deep-rooted beliefs, an elderly man sustained critical injuries after villagers attempted to immolate him over suspected sorcery in Odisha's Nuapada district.
Arpit Pattnaik
In a disturbing incident that highlights the dangerous influence of superstitions and deep-seated beliefs, an elderly man suffered serious injuries after villagers attempted to set him on fire due to suspected sorcery in Odisha's Nuapada district. Police have apprehended nine individuals in connection with this incident.
The victim, known as Khamsingh Majhi (64) from Portipada village in Nuamalapada panchayat of Sinapali block, narrowly escaped being burned alive but sustained severe injuries. He was initially taken to the community health center and later transferred to the district headquarters hospital as his condition worsened.
According to reports, several people in the area have recently died under unexplained circumstances. The mysterious deaths in the past few days have led to suspicions of sorcery among the people. Some of them suspect that Majhi has been practicing black magic, which they believe has led to the deaths.
On Thursday, villagers summoned a kangaroo court and accused Majhi of claiming the human lives through sorcery. They also warned him of dire consequence. When Majhi refuted the allegations, the villagers tied him up with bundles of paddy straw and set him on fire. Screaming in pain, Majhi, in a bid to save his life, jumped into a pond to douse the flames.
After returning home, he told his family about the incident, and they contacted the police. Majhi was initially taken to the CHC and then transferred to the district hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. Following the incident, Nuapada SP GR Raghavendra reported that all nine suspects have been detained for questioning. A case has been filed, and further investigation is ongoing. The victim's health is stable, he added.
