Nestled within the green foliage of Jharkhand's rolling terrain is a terrible reality that has haunted the region for decades - Witch Hunts. A cruel practice accusing women of controlling supernatural abilities has taken an alarming turn, leaving a path of carnage and horror in its wake. Innocent lives have been cruelly wiped out by the wicked tactics of this horrific crime, throwing the state into darkness that refuses to fade. The once-glorious traditions of tribal cultures have been tainted by this incomprehensible evil, which has unleashed a reign of terror that has permeated into the very fabric of the community.
The most recent occurrence happened in Faisal village, which is within the jurisdiction of the Chandwa police station in the Latehar district of Jharkhand. The villagers assembled a panchayat, and an old couple, Sibal Ganjhu and his wife were sentenced to death. What's the reason?
They were suspected of being witch exorcists, and the people thought their witchcraft was harming the entire community. The couple was forced to attend the panchayat, and according to its verdict, they were beaten with sticks until they died. The police were notified the next day, and they arrived at the scene to take control of the remains. The event has sent shockwaves throughout the state, with senior police officers denouncing the conduct and threatening harsh punishment to those responsible.
However, this is not a unique instance. Witch hunting is a major problem in Jharkhand, with an estimated 60 to 70 killings committed in the name of witchcraft each year. More than 1050 incidences of witch hunting violence have been reported to the police since 2015.
How it All Began
Witch hunting has ancient origins in Jharkhand's tribal customs. Tribal communities have traditionally believed in ghosts, sorcery, and supernatural abilities. The issue emerged when these ideas were perverted and exploited to promote fear and control individuals. According to experts, the witch-hunting phenomenon in Jharkhand began to pick up steam in the 1990s. It was spurred by several causes, including the growing influence of other religions, the expansion of modern education, and the collapse of old social institutions.
The Factors Contributing to Witch-Hunting
Poor healthcare is one of the major causes contributing to the growth of witch hunts in Jharkhand. Traditional healers and quacks better known as "The Jhola Chaap Doctors" are still used for medical care in many rural places. When conventional therapies fail, many individuals turn to witchcraft as a final option. Another aspect that has contributed to the situation is illiteracy. Many tribes lack access to education, and superstitions and myths are strongly embedded in their beliefs. As a result, they are subject to manipulation and exploitation by those who propagate fear and mistrust. Traditional hierarchies are breaking down as tribal communities become increasingly integrated into the mainstream, creating a power vacuum that is being filled by unscrupulous forces. Witchcraft is used by these people to obtain power and influence over the community.
Witch hunting is a complicated issue that needs a multifaceted response. Addressing issues like healthcare, education, and social systems is critical to addressing this problem. Furthermore, a concerted effort is required to raise awareness and dispel myths and superstitions. Only then can we expect to develop a society that is just and equal for all. This bleak reality is a stain on Jharkhand's society. The old practice of accusing women of witchcraft has been distorted and used to instill fear and hatred. It is past time to put a stop to this cruel practice and build a society that is fair and just for all. Let us strive for a world in which no one is wrongfully accused, where no one is subjected to brutal torture and murder, and where justice and compassion reign supreme.