Kollam: A man has been booked for allegedly pouring hot fish curry on his wife’s face following a dispute over performing black magic in Chadayamangalam, police said on Thursday.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the incident occurred around 10 am on Wednesday. Sajeer allegedly asked his wife to loosen her hair, sit in front of him, and allow him to apply ashes and tie a locket given by a black-magic practitioner. When she refused, he allegedly poured hot fish curry on her face while it was being cooked in the kitchen of their rented house.

The victim, Rejila Gafoor (36), a resident of Vayackal near Chadayamangalam, has been admitted to hospital with burn injuries. Her husband, Sajeer, is currently absconding, officers said.

Hearing Rejila’s screams, neighbours rushed to her aid and took her to hospital. Police said Sajeer believed his wife was possessed and had attacked her several times in the past. Rejila had previously approached the police after being assaulted by him. Although he was warned, he reportedly continued visiting black-magic practitioners.

In a television interview, Rejila said her husband often visited a Usthad in Anchal who practised black magic and advised him to apply ashes and tie a locket to her body. She also alleged that he frequently attacked their son.

Police have registered a case against Sajeer under Section 118(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (causing hurt using dangerous weapons or means), and a search is underway to trace him.

PTI