Why was a minor detained for allegedly murdering his grandmother over witchcraft suspicions?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Minor detained for allegedly murdering grandmother.
- Incident fueled by witchcraft accusations.
- Community expresses shock and disbelief.
- Investigation ongoing with family members being questioned.
- Calls for awareness on superstition and violence.
Kolkata, Jan 5 (NationPress) A minor has been taken into custody for allegedly murdering his elderly grandmother due to suspicions of her engaging in witchcraft, according to police reports released on Monday.
The tragic event occurred in the Mahmudpur locality of Ramkrishnapur Gram Panchayat, falling under the Kumarganj Police Station in the South Dinajpur district.
Police discovered the lifeless body of the elderly woman and have sent it for a post-mortem examination. The minor has been apprehended.
Authorities identified the deceased as Lakshmi Soren, who resided with her son, daughter-in-law, grandson, and granddaughter.
The granddaughter had been unwell for a period, leading the accused to claim that her illness was a result of Lakshmi Soren's alleged practice of witchcraft.
Reports indicate that the minor had been subjecting his grandmother to verbal abuse over this matter for some time, even threatening her with severe repercussions. On the night of the incident, he is accused of dragging Lakshmi Soren from their home into the street and attacking her.
Monglu Tudu, the victim's son, along with his wife, Latika Hansda, attempted to intervene but were unable to prevent the attack. In desperation, they sought assistance from local panchayat member Ranjita Barman.
Following their call for help, Ranjita’s husband, Kanak Sarkar, notified the police. Unfortunately, the woman succumbed to her injuries before law enforcement arrived.
That evening, officers from Kumarganj police station detained the accused grandson. The body was subsequently taken to Balurghat District Hospital for an autopsy on Monday.
“The minor has been detained, and an investigation is underway. Initial findings suggest that the grandson fatally assaulted his grandmother under the belief that she was involved in witchcraft,” stated a police officer from South Dinajpur district.
Family members are currently being interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation. The incident has stirred considerable concern in the community, with residents expressing disbelief that a minor could be involved in such a heinous act against his grandmother.