Muzaffarpur. Another gruesome picture of superstition has surfaced in Muzaffarpur district of Bihar. In a village in Motipur police station area, a 70 -year -old woman was not only assaulted by a witch, but also an attempt to give manual scavenging. This shameful incident has also exposed the living practices in rural society. What is the whole matter?
The victim has pleaded for justice by applying to the local Motipur police station. According to her, she was sitting at her door, when about half a dozen people of the village surrounded her. The accused abused and said that “You are a witch, because of you our children remain ill.”
On protesting the victim, the hair was pulled, assaulted, and forcibly taken to her house. There was an attempt to give manual scavenging, but somehow he escaped and contacted the local people and police for help.
Police started action
In view of the seriousness of the incident, Rural SP Vidyasagar has clarified that the matter has been taken into consideration and an FIR has been registered against the accused. The police have started investigation and the accused will be arrested soon.
Rural SP Vidyasagar said, “This is a very sensitive and serious matter. We are investigating the entire episode, ensuring the safety of the woman. The culprits will not be spared.”
Poisonous truth of superstition
Incidents of harassing women are still common in rural areas of Bihar. Especially old, widow or alone women are targeted. This practice is often a product of property disputes, private rivalry or illiteracy and superstition.
Human rights organizations and women commissions have been advised to conduct strict law and awareness campaigns in this subject many times, but ground conditions are still worrisome.
Responsibility of society and administration
This incident has made it clear how deep the roots of superstition are still in rural society. Such incidents are not only a matter of law and order, but also a question of social consciousness and human dignity.
The Women’s Commission, State Human Rights Commission, and independent social organizations should take cognizance of the incident and provide mental, social and legal support to the victim.
What is witch harassment prohibition law?
Many states including Bihar have laws related to witch practice. The “Witch Harassment Prevention Act” was implemented in Bihar in 1999, under which there is a provision of punishment of 3 to 7 years on such activities.
But despite the presence of law, there is lack of strict implementation and awareness. As long as the mindset of the society does not change, such incidents will continue to happen.
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