THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, January 28: A 65-year-old Maha Dalit man was found brutally murdered in Palamu district of Jharkhand.
The incident took place at Dhangardeeh hamlet of Chunka village under the Manatu police station limits. The deceased has been identified as Faguni Bhuiyan (65).
Murder Took Place on January 25
According to police and local sources, Faguni Bhuiyan was killed on the late evening of January 25. His body was discovered a day later, on the evening of January 26.
Despite the crime scene being located less than three kilometres from the Manatu police station, the police were not informed immediately and came to know about the murder only on January 26 evening.
Officer-in-charge of Manatu police station, Vicky Barnwal, described the incident as a “brutal murder.”
“The deceased’s head was smashed using heavy, blunt and sharp weapons. His face also bore serious injuries,” he said.
Police clarified that the case was not one of defacement. Although injured, the face of the deceased was clearly recognisable.
Suspicion Linked to Superstition
Sources said Faguni Bhuiyan was known to practice Ojha-Guni (traditional healing). Following a recent death in a local family, he allegedly became the target of suspicion and hostility in the village.
FIR Lodged, One Accused Named
The deceased’s son, Bhola Bhuiyan, lodged an FIR on January 27, naming one accused. The case has been registered under Section 103 (murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Police have not disclosed the name of the accused, citing investigation reasons. According to sources, the accused has fled the village.
Police said the investigation is underway and expressed confidence that the accused will be arrested soon.
Sources added that the police have not invoked provisions of the Prevention of Witch (Dain) Practices Act and have proceeded only under the murder section of the BNS.
