Police Investigate Axe Murder Linked to Witchcraft Belief in Jharkhand

Gumla district’s Palakot police station is handling a grim case involving the alleged killing of 40‑year‑old TaramuNi Devi over accusations of "dain‑bisahi" – a term used locally for witchcraft. The fatal attack occurred in the early hours of Thursday, while the victim was near the village school washing utensils.

A man from the same village, identified as DungDung, confronted her, claimed she was responsible for his epileptic seizures, and attacked her with a large axe. The blow caused catastrophic injuries to her head and torso, resulting in immediate death.

The perpetrator proceeded to Palakot police station after the homicide, surrendering voluntarily. Officers quickly arrived at the scene, recovered the body, and forwarded it for a post‑mortem test.

Family members disclosed that the suspect had previously assaulted the victim in 2025 with a similar weapon, leaving her severely injured but alive. In that earlier case, the accused was released after posting bond.

Preliminary police findings indicate the suspect has suffered from epilepsy for nearly three years, and he irrationally believed the victim’s alleged witchcraft was the root cause of his illness. Authorities are now conducting a comprehensive investigation, interrogating the accused and exploring all possible motives.