By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 2: A series of violent incidents linked to witchcraft accusations have raised alarm prompting calls for stronger legal measures and public awareness to curb mob mentality and superstition-driven violence.
In the past two weeks, two separate cases have been reported — one at Kynroh Nongbri village in East Khasi Hills and another at Khliehshnong Sohra — where mobs allegedly targeted individuals accused of being “Menshohnoh” or “Nongaiksuid” (witches or people practicing witchcraft).
At Khliehshnong Sohra, nine people were arrested after a mob, reportedly incited by claims made by a minor boy, attacked a resident named Ham Shangpliang, whom the boy accused of casting a witchcraft spell on him. Preliminary police investigations revealed that the crowd acted on the boy’s “visions” and superstitious claims.
In another case at Kynroh Nongbri, a 35-year-old mentally challenged man, identified as Arnikstar Ryntathiang, was rescued by personnel of the Special Operations Team (SOT) and the DSP (Operations) from an enraged mob.
Speaking to The Shillong Times on Sunday, East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem has warned that strict action will be taken against individuals spreading false rumours or instigating violence through witchcraft accusations.
“No one will be spared if found responsible for provoking mob violence,” he cautioned.
The incidents have sparked outrage and deep concern among religious leaders, civil society organisations, and public figures, who condemned mob justice and called for education and restraint.
Fr. Richard Majaw, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Shillong, said that taking the law into one’s own hands is unacceptable.
“We understand that such beliefs exist in local folklore, but they are difficult to prove. People must remain calm and not act out of anger or emotion,” he said, warning that innocent people could easily become victims of baseless accusations.
Echoing his views, Fr. Jyrwa stressed the need for greater awareness among the public to combat blind faith and superstitious practices that lead to violence.
Rev. Edwin H. Kharkongor, Secretary of the Khasi Jaintia Christian Leaders Forum (KJCLF), described the recent incidents as “shocking and heartbreaking,” saying they expose a dangerous mob mentality inflamed by social media and misinformation.
“Those suffering from hallucinations or delusions need care and medical attention, not mob punishment,” he said. “It is dangerous when unthinking crowds act on rumours and emotions instead of reason.”
He commended law enforcement personnel for their swift response and urged community and faith leaders to work with the administration to provide timely interventions that prevent such tragedies.
Moreover, Agnes Kharshiing, president of the Civil Society Women’s Organisation (CSWO), said accusations of witchcraft must be examined case by case.
“Sometimes jealousy or rivalry may be behind these allegations,” she noted.
Kharshiing warned that mob actions based on rumours could lead to the loss of innocent lives.
“No one has the right to take another’s life under any unproven accusation,” Kharshiing said, urging people to report suspicions to the police instead of resorting to violence.
Further, former Pastor, Kyrsoibor Pyrtuh highlighted the absence of scientific evidence for the existence of “Menshohnoh” or “Nongaiksuid” but acknowledged that these beliefs remain deeply rooted in local folklore.
“These stories form part of our traditions, but they require rational discussion and informed discussion among elders, youth, and community leaders,” he said.
Pyrtuh condemned past and present mob actions as “morally wrong and illegal,” stressing that suspicions must be handled through lawful and evidence-based processes.
He further drew parallels between superstition-driven violence and modern forms of exploitation, pointing out that greed and moral decay still drive people to harm others for personal gain.
KHADC MDC Powell Sohkhlet expressed sadness over the recurring incidents, calling them a reflection of deep-rooted fear and ignorance.
“It is difficult to prove such beliefs, but what matters is stopping violence — the assaults, the stone pelting, the burning of houses, and loss of human lives,” he said.
Sohkhlet urged the government to train local authorities and police in handling such sensitive situations and to formulate laws addressing crimes related to witchcraft accusations.
