Odisha woman assaulted and looted over witchcraft suspicions

A 54-year-old woman, Priyatama Mahanty, was violently assaulted and looted in Banitia village, Bhadrak district, Odisha, following allegations of witchcraft. Local residents reportedly accused her of performing human sacrifice rituals to obtain hidden wealth, suspicions that intensified after a young relative exhibited behavior perceived as spiritual possession.

During the attack, the victim’s residence was vandalized, and valuables including cash and jewelry were stolen. The violence reportedly continued while her brother was transporting her to a hospital; she was allegedly pulled from an auto-rickshaw and assaulted again. Subrata Das, the Inspector In-Charge of Bhadrak Rural police station, confirmed that a first information report has been filed, addressing both the assault and underlying land disputes.