In a shocking incident in Odisha’s Nuapada district, a 50-year-old man, accused of practicing black magic, was set ablaze by villagers in broad daylight, police said. The victim, Kham Singh Majhi, is currently in critical condition at a hospital.
The attack took place in Portipada village, where a kangaroo court had been organized. Majhi was tied with straw ropes and set on fire. As the flames engulfed him, he ran desperately from house to house, seeking help, but no one intervened.
Severely burned, Majhi was eventually pulled from the area by his family and thrown into a nearby pond. Initially treated at the Sinappli government hospital, he was later transferred to the district headquarters hospital due to the severity of his injuries.
Majhi’s son, Hemlal, refuted the accusations, stating that the villagers had previously threatened his father. “The villagers called a meeting and threatened my father with dire consequences for performing black magic. As he denied the charges, they first beat him up and then set him on fire,” said Hemlal.
The Sinapalli police station has registered a case, and a manhunt is underway for those responsible. Khariar SDPO Arup Behera said, “Most of the people have fled their houses when police reached the village.” He further added, “As per the allegation, an attempt was made to burn him alive. The investigation is now at the preliminary stage. We will ascertain the reason for the attack only after a thorough probe.”
