Palamu: A shocking incident linked to superstition has been reported from Mangradih village in the Naudiha Bazar police station area of Jharkhand’s Palamu district. An elderly man, identified as Sitaram Ravidas, around 60 years old, was allegedly hacked to death with a sharp-edged weapon on Wednesday morning, October 21, following suspicions that he was practising witchcraft.
According to police, two brothers have been identified as the accused. Both allegedly fled after the incident, and efforts are underway to apprehend them.
Brother’s Death in Ranchi Allegedly Triggered the Attack
According to information shared by the police, the accused brothers’ sibling died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Ranchi on Tuesday night. Following his death, the family allegedly suspected that Sitaram’s supposed occult practices were responsible.
Police believe this suspicion led to the fatal attack on Wednesday morning. The allegations of witchcraft remain unverified, and investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the killing.
The accused have been identified as Promad and Sonu, who are brothers. Both are reportedly absconding.
Sitaram Had Been Living at His In-Laws’ House for 40 Years
Sitaram Ravidas was originally a resident of Kauriya village under the Bishrampur police station area of Palamu district. He had reportedly been living at his in-laws’ house in Mangradih village for nearly 40 years.
After receiving information about the incident, Naudiha Bazar police reached the spot and took possession of the body. It was subsequently sent to Medinirai Medical College and Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Police Launch Raids to Arrest the Accused
Naudiha Bazar police station in-charge Neeraj Kumar said the two accused had been identified and that raids were being conducted to arrest them.
Police are investigating the circumstances of the murder and examining all relevant aspects of the case.
The incident has created shock and concern in the area, once again highlighting the dangers of violence driven by superstition and unsubstantiated allegations of witchcraft.
