Tragic Incident in Assam: Couple Burned Alive Over Witchcraft Accusations

In a shocking incident in Assam, a couple was burned alive by villagers who accused them of witchcraft. This tragic event underscores the persistent issue of superstition in society, where even educated individuals can fall victim to harmful beliefs. The police have launched an investigation into the incident, which reflects a broader trend of violence against those labeled as witches in the region. With a history of similar occurrences, this case raises serious concerns about the safety and rights of individuals in communities plagued by superstition. As the investigation unfolds, the need for awareness and education about the dangers of such beliefs becomes increasingly urgent.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 31, 2025, 11:10 IST

Witchcraft Accusations Lead to Violence in Assam

One of India's most pressing issues is superstition, which poses a significant threat to society. Even educated individuals can fall prey to these beliefs, making it challenging to combat such notions. A recent incident in Assam highlights the dangers of superstition. In a village located in the Karbi Anglong district, a couple was tragically burned alive by locals who suspected them of practicing witchcraft, as reported by the police on Wednesday. This horrific event took place on Tuesday night in the Beloguri Munda village of the Howraghat area. Authorities stated that the assailants first attacked the couple with sharp weapons inside their home before setting it ablaze, resulting in their deaths.

Officials revealed that the villagers accused the victims of engaging in witchcraft. The deceased have been identified as 43-year-old Gardi Birova and 33-year-old Meera Birova. Senior police and municipal officials have arrived at the scene and initiated an investigation.

An official commented, 'This area is deeply entrenched in superstition. People still believe in rumors, causing suffering for some individuals.' Such acts fall under the category of crimes according to various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) as well as state laws.

This is not the first occurrence of such violence; previously, villagers in Assam had also burned an elderly couple alive after they were accused of witchcraft by an illegal tribunal. A police officer noted that villagers from Rajapara, located about 80 kilometers west of Guwahati, had summoned a local healer to address the rising illness in the area.

Senior police officer Anil Kumar Deka stated, 'After speaking with the villagers, the healer accused 65-year-old Bishnu Rabha and his 60-year-old wife Porsi of practicing witchcraft, which he claimed was causing widespread illness.' Following this, the villagers took the couple to a nearby forest and burned them alive. Deka added, 'The villagers brutally beat the couple before dragging them into the woods and setting them on fire.' When the villagers called for their parents, the couple's two sons and a daughter managed to escape from their home. The investigation is ongoing, but no arrests have been made yet. The couple was known for their traditional medicinal practices.

An official stated, 'This is clearly a case of murder under the guise of witchcraft accusations, and the investigation is ongoing. We will take stringent action as per the law.' Reports indicate that the harassment of alleged witches continues in Assam and other northeastern states. According to police records, approximately 250 individuals have been killed by mobs in Assam over witchcraft allegations in the past five years.