A tragic incident took place earlier this week in Chaibasa, Jharkhand, where a 32-year-old woman and her two-month-old baby were tragically killed by locals who suspected them of witchcraft. The attack occurred around 9 PM on February 17, while the family was at home. The husband of the deceased, Kolhan Sinku, also sustained injuries during the incident but has since been hospitalized for treatment.

Family Threatened by Mob

Kolhan Sinku was at home with his second wife, Jyoti Sinku, their infant, and his two-year-old son, along with his first wife, Jani Sinku. The disturbance began when Kolhan’s cousin called out to him, prompting the entire family to exit their house. They encountered a mob comprised of around a dozen individuals, including men, women, and children, who accused Jyoti of being a witch. Despite Kolhan’s plea for the matter to be resolved peacefully in the presence of village leaders the following day, the crowd refused to listen and escalated the situation.

Mob Violence Escalates

In a shocking turn of events, members of the mob doused Kolhan, Jyoti, and her infant in petrol and set them on fire. Kolhan managed to escape the flames and ran towards the nearby police station, stripping off his burning clothes along the way. However, the police station was closed at that hour. He then sought refuge at a relative’s home before returning to the police station the following morning to report the incident, where he had to wait for two additional hours until it opened.

Police Investigation and Arrests

Upon reporting the crime, authorities admitted Kolhan to a hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, police officers responded to the Sinku residence and discovered the charred remains of Jyoti and her two-month-old child. The bodies were taken into custody for post-mortem examinations. Subsequently, four individuals were arrested in connection with the incident, and their statements were documented. Initial investigations indicated that nearly ten individuals from the same family could be implicated in the assault.

Superstitions Fuel Tragedy

According to local police, the incident was fueled by superstition, as the villagers had blamed Jyoti Sinku for the death of a relative who had suffered from a long-term illness. Authorities are working to identify other participants in the crime, particularly women involved, as they continue their investigation. Jagannathpur Sub-Divisional Police Officer Raphael Murmu confirmed that four men named in Kolhan’s complaint have been arrested. The situation highlights the severe consequences that arise from superstition and mob mentality in rural areas.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share