Police caution against rumour mongering on witchcraft

SHILLONG, April 15: East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem on Tuesday warned that strict action will be taken against individuals spreading false rumours and making accusations of witchcraft.
His statement comes in the wake of a disturbing incident near Mawriang village under the Pynursla Civil Sub-Division, where an enraged mob set fire to two houses belonging to the daughter of 80-year-old Bisto Khongstia, who was accused of being a suspected menshohnoh (involved in human sacrifice). The incident occurred on the night of April 8 at around 8 PM.
Khongstia, who lives with his daughter and grandchildren, said the mob — primarily from Mawriang — accused him of murder and went on to burn down two houses located in their orchard.
According to Khongstia, the mob ignored his pleas and verbally abused his entire family. He said that if he had committed a crime, he should have been handed over to the police, rather than having their homes destroyed.
The family has been left homeless following the attack.
SP Syiem said the burned houses were owned by Poiri Suting, and the mob acted after a dead body was discovered in a nearby forest close to the family’s residence, which is situated a considerable distance from Mawriang village. Preliminary investigations revealed no injury marks on the body to suggest foul play or murder, Syiem added.
So far, six individuals have been arrested in connection with the attack and are currently being held at the Shillong District Jail. The investigation is ongoing.
In response to the rising number of false witchcraft accusations, the police have launched an awareness campaign across the Riwar area. Village Defence Parties (VDPs) have also been strengthened in various villages to help protect individuals from such allegations and ensure timely reporting to the authorities. “The VDPs will act as first responders and assist the police in handling such cases,” Syiem said.
He stressed that many similar incidents have seen innocent people fall victim to mob violence.