‘Witchcraft’ suspicion turns deadly in Bihar: Woman dies, family protests outside accused’s house

Muzaffarpur: A 52-year-old woman was allegedly beaten to death by her neighbours over suspicions of witchcraft in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district, triggering a protest by her family members and villagers who demanded justice, police said on Monday.

The incident took place on Sunday in the Kachhi Pakki police outpost area. The woman was allegedly assaulted with sticks by her neighbours, according to the police.
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Woman dies during treatment after alleged assault

Following the assault, the woman was taken to Sadar Hospital for treatment. Doctors later referred her to Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) for further care.

However, her family members took her to a private hospital in the city, where she died during treatment, police said.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (Cyber) Himanshu Kumar, who is currently in charge of SDPO Town-2, said police received information about the alleged murder linked to accusations of witchcraft and immediately visited the scene.
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Family, villagers protest outside accused's house

Following the woman's death, her family members and local residents placed her body outside the house of the main accused and staged a protest, demanding justice.

The body was subsequently sent for a post-mortem examination, police said.

Police attempted to record a statement from the woman's son. However, he said he would submit a written complaint later, Kumar said.

An FIR will be registered after the police receive the written complaint, the officer said.

A forensic science laboratory (FSL) team examined the crime scene, and police are investigating the case from all angles.

PTI