PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Feb 18: In a shocking incident from Jharkhand, a woman and her minor son were allegedly burnt alive by villagers on suspicion of practising witchcraft in West Singhbhum district late Tuesday night.
The incident occurred under the Kumardungi police station area in West Singhbhum.
Villagers Allegedly Set House on Fire
According to police sources, a group of villagers stormed the family’s house, poured petrol on the woman and her child, and set them on fire. Both victims died on the spot.
The woman’s husband suffered severe burn injuries while trying to rescue them. He has been admitted to a nearby hospital and is said to be in critical condition.
Rumours Led to Brutal Attack
Preliminary investigations suggest that rumours had been circulating in the village for several days, blaming the family for certain illnesses and other untoward incidents.
The woman was allegedly branded a “witch” by some villagers, which led to the brutal attack.
12 Accused Surrender at Police Station
Police said around 12 villagers allegedly conspired to carry out the crime.
In a dramatic development on Wednesday morning, all 12 accused appeared at the Kumardungi police station and surrendered. They have been taken into custody and are being interrogated.
Senior police officials visited the village to review the situation, and additional security forces have been deployed to prevent any further tension.