Tragedy in Jharkhand: Woman, baby burned in witchcraft allegation

In a shocking incident in Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district, a 32-year-old woman and her one-year-old baby were allegedly set on fire after she was accused of practicing witchcraft . Both died on the spot, while four people have been arrested in connection with the attack.

The attack occurred late Tuesday in a village under the Kumardungi police station area . The woman’s husband, who was also injured while trying to intervene, managed to escape and spent the night at a relative’s home before approaching the police on Wednesday morning.

According to his complaint, he woke up after hearing people calling for him and his wife. Around a dozen villagers were reportedly accusing his wife of witchcraft . During the commotion, the mob poured kerosene on her while she held their baby and set them both ablaze .

“After the complaint was lodged, the husband was admitted to Kumardungi government hospital . We have arrested four men named in the complaint and are trying to identify the women involved, who reportedly acted on superstition ,” said Jagannathpur SDPO Raphael Murmu .

Police said the attack was triggered after a relative of the husband died following a prolonged illness, and villagers blamed the woman for the death.

Witch-hunting in Jharkhand remains a grim reality, particularly in rural areas where superstition and local beliefs about sorcery continue to drive violence. Cases often involve women, especially widows or vulnerable women , who are accused of bringing misfortune. Despite the Jharkhand Witchcraft Prevention Act and other legal safeguards, enforcement remains a challenge due to community resistance, fear of retaliation, and lack of awareness.

Authorities and NGOs have been working to raise awareness, conduct workshops on superstition-driven crimes, and educate communities about legal consequences. Police intervention is often complicated by remote locations, delayed reporting, and social pressures that discourage victims from speaking out. Support systems for survivors and children include shelter homes, counseling services, and legal aid, though coverage remains limited in many villages.

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for stronger community education, vigilant law enforcement, and protective mechanisms to prevent superstition-based violence and protect women and children in vulnerable rural areas.