Assam police have arrested 20 people, including four women, for the murder and burning of a couple accused of witchcraft in Karbi Anglong district. The incident occurred on December 30 in Howraghat area. Authorities vow a thorough investigation to combat the persistent practice of witch-hunting.
On December 30, villagers in No. 1 Beloguri Munda Village, located in Karbi Anglong’s Howraghat area, murdered and burned Gardi and Mira Birowa after accusing them of witchcraft. This gruesome act highlights the ongoing issue of witch-hunting in Assam.
By Saturday, Assam Police announced the arrest of 20 individuals, including four women, in connection with the crime. "In reference to the recent incident of gruesome murder involving witch-hunting at Howraghat, a total of 20 accused persons, including 4 women, have been arrested so far. The investigation is presently underway. All possible efforts are being made to ensure a thorough and quality investigation and the timely delivery of justice," stated the Karbi Anglong police.
Assam Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) Akhilesh Singh visited the village on Saturday and emphasized zero tolerance for such practices. "This kind of violence and persecution against people by calling them witches cannot be tolerated in any way in society. This case will be investigated scientifically. Just a few months back, we secured a conviction of lifetime imprisonment for a witch-hunting case in Sivasagar. We will ensure justice in this case too," he said.
Witch-hunting remains a significant challenge in Assam, classified as a cognizable and non-bailable offence under the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, 2018. Records indicate 32 cases registered under this Act from 2022 to 2024. In May 2025, the state government introduced the ‘Assam State Policy to Combat Human Trafficking and End Witch-Hunting,’ focusing on prevention, rescue, rehabilitation, and prosecution. The policy identifies vulnerable areas for awareness and intervention programs to curb such violence.
