Sangareddy: Couple assaulted, tied to tree over suspected witchcraft

Sangareddy: A couple was brutally assaulted and tied to a tree by a group of villagers in Kolkur village, Sangareddy district.

The victims, identified as Muttangi Yadaiah and his wife Amritamma were accused of practicing black magic by their neighbour, Dayadi, whose family had been unwell for a week.

Sadashivapet Town CI Naveen Kumar said: “The incident was triggered by an illness that affected some of their family members. Desperate for answers, Dayadi consulted a local occultist who claimed that their neighbours had performed black magic on them.”

As a result, Yadaiah and his wife Amritamma were called to a panchayat meeting on Saturday. There, they subjected the couple to assault before tying them to a tree near the panchayat office.

Naveen Kumar further added, “Upon receiving information, Sadasivapet police reached Kolkur and rescued Yadaiah and Amritamma from the clutches of their attackers. The couple was immediately rushed to a government hospital for medical treatment, where their condition is reported to be stable.”

Following the complaint lodged by the victims, Sadasivapet police took action and filed a case against Dayadi and seven others.

Age-old Practices

Throughout history, there has been a practice of punishing individuals accused of witchcraft by tying them to trees and subjecting them to beatings. This practice originated from deep-rooted beliefs and fears associated with magic spells and supernatural powers. The act of tying them to trees serves as a visual display of their alleged wrongdoing, aiming to shame and deter others from engaging in similar practices.

However, as societies have progressed, these practices are now widely recognized as unjust and inhumane. They violate basic human rights and dignity.

The incident in Kolkur village serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenge to end superstitious beliefs and ensure the protection of human rights. Education, awareness, and promoting critical thinking are essential in creating a more enlightened and inclusive society that rejects violence and discrimination based on unfounded beliefs.