Nuapada: Sinapalli police on Saturday detained 10 individuals in connection with the attempted murder of Kham Singh Majhi, a 64-year-old man who was brutally attacked and set on fire by villagers in Potipada, Nuapada district, on suspicion of practicing black magic.
The police detained the suspects at Sinapalli police station after a complaint was filed by the victim’s son, Hemlal Majhi. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
According to reports, the residents of Potipada convened a meeting on Friday evening, where Kham Singh Majhi was summoned to attend. In a kangaroo court held by the villagers, he was accused of practicing black magic. As punishment, they allegedly tied him up with ropes made of straw and set him on fire after dousing him with petrol.
As the flames engulfed him, Majhi ran desperately from house to house, screaming in agony, seeking help. However, no one in the village came forward to assist him. In a last attempt to save himself, he jumped into a nearby pond.
Majhi was eventually rescued by his family and rushed to a nearby government hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later transferred to the district headquarters hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
This disturbing incident has raised concerns about the persistence of superstitions in rural areas, where accusations of witchcraft or black magic often lead to violence. The police are continuing their investigation to bring justice to the victim and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
