Balasore: A 52-year-old woman from Mallichua village under Soro police limits in Balasore district died on Saturday at SCB Medical College & Hospital in Cuttack, 20 days after being allegedly chained to a tree by villagers on suspicion of practicing witchcraft.
The deceased, Tuni Singh, was one of three members of a tribal family reportedly attacked on September 21.
According to reports, Villagers accused her brother-in-law, Chaita Singh, of sorcery while he was performing a puja at home. He was dragged outside, assaulted, and chained to a tree. Tuni Singh and Chaita’s wife Muni Singh were also reportedly assaulted and tied to the tree when they tried to intervene.
Following a complaint lodged by Chaita’s nephew, Gobinda Singh, police attempted to reach the village but were blocked by locals who had placed timber logs on the roads. Chaita was initially treated at Soro CHC and later shifted to Balasore DHH. Tuni Singh’s condition worsened, leading to her transfer to SCB Medical College & Hospital.
Despite treatment, Tuni Singh passed away on October 11. Following her death, Soro police arrested five persons. After the post-mortem on Sunday, her body was brought back to Mallichua village, where her last rites were performed under police supervision. Police are maintaining a close watch on the situation.
