Bihar Witchcraft Killings: 3 Arrested, 20 More Accused

This week, police in Purnia, Bihar, arrested three people believed to be involved in the murder of a tribal family accused of witchcraft. The arrests bring the total number of people named in the First Information Report (FIR) to 23, with a mob of around 150 villagers reportedly taking part in the gruesome act.

What Happened

When & Where: On the night of July 6, 2025, in Tetgama village near Purnia, a tribal family of five was attacked by villagers who believed they practiced witchcraft .
Victims: The slain included the family’s traditional healer, Babu Lal Oraon (65), his 82-year-old mother, his 60-year-old wife, their 25-year-old son, and 22-year-old daughter-in-law. A 17-year-old son survived and alerted the police.
Mob Behavior: About 50 to 200 villagers reportedly beat the family, used a tractor to move bodies, and burned them in a field.

Arrests and Investigation

Three Arrested: The police have detained Mukul Oraon, Chhotu Oraon, and Sanaullah, including the tractor driver among the accused.
Scope of Probe: Authorities have filed an FIR naming 23 suspects and are seeking to arrest more.
Evidence & Statements: Forensic teams and dog squads examined the crime scene. The DGP confirmed the post-mortem report showed victims were killed before being burned — they were beaten, not set on fire while alive.
Trigger for Violence: The mob believed the family caused illnesses and death of local children through witchcraft, triggering the horrific attack.

Why This Happened: Role of Superstition

Superstition in Rural Areas: In many remote parts of India, superstition can lead villagers to blame healers for sickness or death.
Witch Hunts in India: Between 2001 and 2021, over 3,000 people — mostly women — were killed due to witchcraft accusations.
Social & Economic Drivers:
- Poor education and healthcare in rural regions often lead to reliance on healers.
- This, combined with sudden illness or death, can spark mob reactions.
- Wealth and property disputes may disguise as witchcraft accusations.

Voices & Insights

Police: The DGP said the murders were superstition‑fuelled, and more arrests are expected.
Local Family: A villager said, “At least five children have died in the last one-and-half years… villagers suspected it was due to witchcraft”.
Officials: The District Magistrate noted that the crime reflects poor literacy and awareness in tribal areas.
Political Reactions:
- The Jharkhand Chief Minister urged the Bihar government to act swiftly and stressed rising tribal violence.
- Congress and JMM leaders criticized Bihar’s law and order, while BJP defended police action and stressed crime decline .

Wider Significance & What Needs to Be Done

Repeating History: Such mob murders reflect a dangerous pattern seen before in rural India whenever sudden illness or death occurs.
Needed Actions:
- Education and Awareness: Local campaigns must target superstitions and teach scientific reasoning.
- Stronger Law Enforcement: Special anti-superstition units and faster arrests could deter future lynchings.
- Healthcare Access: Better health clinics and medical facilities can reduce panic during illness.
Legal Framework: Although six Indian states have anti-witch‑hunting laws, convictions remain rare due to poor implementation.

What’s Next?

More Arrests: Police aim to arrest all 23 named suspects and any others involved.
Trials & Justice: A fair and fast trial is essential to restore trust in the legal system.
Awareness Campaigns: Local outreach to challenge superstitions and provide medical support.
Policy Measures: Strengthen and implement laws against witch‑related violence.

Final Thoughts

The Purnia witchcraft murders are a painful reminder of how fear and superstition can destroy lives. Arresting the three suspects is a significant step forward. Yet, real change will come only if education improves, health services expand, and communities reject harmful beliefs. Only then can India move toward safer and kinder villages — for everyone.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies