Why Were 8 Arrested in the Witchcraft Murder Case in Purulia?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Eight individuals arrested for the murder of Padabi Tudu.
- The incident occurred during Kali Puja.
- Allegations of witchcraft fueled the violence.
- Victim's husband demands justice.
- Community issues of superstition highlighted.
Kolkata, Oct 21 (NationPress) On Tuesday, law enforcement officials apprehended eight individuals in relation to the brutal killing of a tribal woman, driven by allegations of witchcraft. This tragic event unfolded during the night of Kali Puja in Chapuri village, located within the jurisdiction of the Para police station in Purulia district.
Identified as Padabi Tudu, the victim succumbed to fatal injuries inflicted by her own relatives. Thus far, authorities have detained eight suspects, including the victim's brother-in-law.
Local reports indicate that on the evening of Kali Puja, Padabi was preparing for the festivities at her home when her brother-in-law, Hitler Tudu, accompanied by his wife Jaleshwari, forcibly removed her from the house and brutally assaulted her in the yard. Eyewitnesses allege that Padabi was struck with sticks and a digging bar that was present in their home.
Despite efforts by locals who found Padabi covered in blood and rushed her to the Para Block Primary Health Centre, medical professionals declared her dead upon arrival. The Para Police Station promptly dispatched a team to the scene, and the body was sent for autopsy to Purulia Medical College and Hospital.
A senior police officer from Purulia stated, “Eight individuals have been arrested concerning this incident, the majority being relatives of the deceased. An investigation is underway.”
Padabi's husband, Subhash Tudu, recounted, “I went to the market to gather supplies for Kali Puja. During my absence, 8 to 10 people, including my grandfather, viciously attacked my wife, accusing her of witchcraft. She was assaulted with sticks, digging bars, and axes. Upon returning home and learning of the incident, I was denied access to my house, only to find my wife lying in a pool of blood.”
He has called for severe punishment for those responsible.