Life Sentences for Five in Witchcraft Murder Case: Shocking Verdict in Malkangiri

In a disturbing case from Malkangiri, a local court has sentenced five individuals to life imprisonment for their roles in a murder tied to witchcraft accusations. The incident, which occurred in 2020, involved a community trial that escalated into violence. The court's decision follows testimonies from multiple witnesses, shedding light on the tragic events that led to this severe punishment. Read on to uncover the chilling details of this case and the implications of such acts in society.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 1, 2025, 10:18 IST

Malkangiri Court Delivers Harsh Sentencing

Malkangiri: On Thursday, a local court sentenced five individuals to life imprisonment for their involvement in a murder linked to accusations of witchcraft that occurred in 2020.

The ruling was delivered by District and Sessions Judge Prasanna Kumar Panda after reviewing testimonies from ten witnesses.

The convicted individuals include Labakush Kunteri, Somanath Jal, Shukla Jal, Shankar Majhi, and Mangu Majhi, all hailing from Gunthabeda village within the jurisdiction of Motu police.

Government attorney Jogen Raika led the prosecution in this case.

As per the case records, in February 2020, the accused captured Manguli Kunteri and her spouse, Mukunda Kunteri, tying them to a tamarind tree in their village for a community trial based on witchcraft allegations.

They reportedly assaulted the couple before releasing them. Two days later, they convened another meeting and took the couple to a nearby forest.

In a horrific act, the accused poured kerosene on Mukunda and ignited him while Manguli watched.

Following the incident, Manguli informed her son Manik, leading them to file a complaint with the Motu police.

A case (55/2020) was subsequently registered, resulting in the arrest of the accused who were then presented in court.