Woman Killed in Bihar After Witchcraft Accusation
A tragic witchcraft accusation killing has been reported from rural Bihar, highlighting how misinformation, fear, and poor health awareness can turn deadly. A 35-year-old woman was brutally assaulted by neighbours following false claims that she caused a child’s illness through witchcraft.
What Happened ?
The incident occurred on Thursday in the Rajauli area of Nawada, located in Bihar. According to police officials, a violent clash broke out between two neighbouring families, leading to the death of a woman identified as Kiran Devi.
Health Misconceptions Triggered the Violence
According to the victim’s family, the conflict began after a child from a neighbouring household became unwell. Although the child was examined by a doctor and diagnosed with a brain-related medical condition, some neighbours allegedly rejected the medical explanation.
Instead, they accused Kiran Devi of practising witchcraft and blamed her for the child’s illness. These unfounded beliefs reportedly fuelled anger and fear, which quickly escalated into violence.
From a medical and public health perspective, such incidents reflect a serious gap in health literacy and trust in modern healthcare.
Brutal Attack and Injuries
Family members alleged that four individuals from the neighbouring family attacked Kiran Devi using bricks, stones, and iron rods. She suffered severe injuries and died as a result of the assault.
Her husband, Naresh Choudhary, was among at least four other people who were injured during the clash and required medical attention.
This witchcraft accusation killing once again exposes how quickly mob behaviour can override reason, especially when medical conditions are misunderstood.
Police Investigation Underway
Local police confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. Statements are being recorded, and legal action will follow based on the findings.
Authorities have emphasised that violence driven by superstition is a criminal offence and cannot be justified under any circumstances.
Why This Is a Health and Social Concern
- Medical conditions, especially neurological illnesses, are often misunderstood in rural areas
- Superstition and stigma can replace science when healthcare awareness is low
- Mental health stress, fear, and group panic can trigger extreme violence
Public health experts stress that improving access to medical education and community health communication is critical to preventing future witchcraft accusation killings.
Conclusion
Despite legal protections, accusations of witchcraft continue to claim lives in parts of India. Each such case underlines the urgent need for:
- Better health literacy
- Stronger community outreach by healthcare workers
- Swift law enforcement action
- Public education on neurological and mental health conditions
This case underscores medical understanding, public awareness, and social responsibility. Violence rooted in superstition is a failure of systems, not science, and must be addressed through education, healthcare access, and justice.
Source:Â Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 9 January 2026
- 20:00
