Himachal Pradesh: 21 arrested for beating woman suspecting witchcraft

The Sarkaghat police in Himachal Pradesh arrested 21 persons for allegedly beating and parading an old woman over the suspicion of witchcraft on Monday, November 11. According to reports, the incident took place on November 6. However, it was only reported to the police after the video went viral on social media on November 9. 

Reports stated that after the video was out on social media, the police contacted the anonymous complainant and took the statement. Taking action, the police filed an FIR and arrested 21 persons that included 14 men and 7 women, revealed the police. The police also stated that an investigation is going on and a strict action will be taken against those who are involved in the cruel act. 

Another incident

According to reports, in another incident, last month, around six elderly men were allegedly dragged out of their homes and made to eat their excreta on suspicion of witchcraft in Odisha's Brahmpur. Further reports stated that the mob had also allegedly extracted their teeth in full public view. According to the police, three cases were registered in this matter, after which 29 people were arrested. The police had also registered an FIR against villagers who had attacked a cop while rescuing the victims, stated reports. 

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Earlier in July this year, around 10 people were detained in connection with the deaths of two men and women in Gumla district of Jharkhand. According to reports, two men and two women were beaten to death after being accused of witchcraft. Further reports stated that the victims were dragged out of their homes by a mob of around 10 villagers. The incident took place between 1 am and 3 am. Further, the mob had locked them up in one of the houses and thrashed them on suspicion of being witches and practising black magic, stated the police. According to some reports, their throats were also slit. 

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(WITH ANI INPUTS)