Woman branded 'witch', husband beaten to death by mob in Gujarat village
A mob allegedly attacked Manu Bhai Damor's family in Gujarat's Sabarkantha district after accusing his wife of witchcraft. The killing and arrests have renewed focus on superstition-driven violence in rural areas.
A 50-year-old man was killed and his two sons were critically injured after a mob allegedly attacked a family over accusations of witchcraft in Gujarat's Sabarkantha district, police said on Friday. Twelve accused, including four women, have been arrested in connection with the incident.
The attack took place on May 19 in Gadi Vankda village, where members of a neighbouring family allegedly stormed into the house of Manu Bhai Damor, accusing his wife Kamalaben of practising witchcraft.
According to police, around 12 men and women armed with axes and sticks barged into the Damor family's home and began assaulting the occupants while shouting that Kamalaben was a 'dayan' (witch) and should be killed. The family was caught off guard before the violence quickly escalated into a brutal attack.
During the assault, Manu Bhai's son Jitendra tried to intervene and protect his family. Police said one of the accused allegedly struck him on the head with an axe, leaving him seriously injured. Even after he collapsed, the attackers allegedly continued the assault.
Officials said that four women in the mob allegedly dragged Manu Bhai out of the house and into a nearby field, where he was repeatedly attacked with axes and sticks by other accused. He sustained severe head injuries and was rushed to hospital in critical condition.
After battling for life for nearly a week, Manu Bhai died during treatment on the night of May 26. His two sons, who were injured while trying to save him, remain hospitalised.
Khedbrahma Deputy Superintendent of Police Kuldeep Nai said a murder case has been registered and all 12 accused have been arrested. Police said further investigation is underway and remand will be sought if required.
Authorities identified some of the accused as Valjibhai Damor, Jigneshbhai Damor and Rohitbhai Damor. Police suspect the attack was carried out as part of a planned assault driven by superstition and rumours branding the victim's wife as a witch.
The incident has once again highlighted the persistence of witchcraft-related violence and superstition-driven crimes in parts of rural India.