Another Gruesome Murder in Odisha: Superstition and Lack of Education Continue to Plague Tribal Dominated Areas

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Bhubaneswar, January 11, 2023 – Odisha, a state marked by tribal dominance, has once again been witness to a horrifying murder driven by superstition and lack of education. The incident, which occurred in Tandapalli Village of Malkangiri district, claimed the life of a 55-year-old man, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and development in these regions.

According to a police officer, the victim was brutally killed by two individuals who suspected him of practicing black magic. The accused, identified as Muda Padiami and his relative Mukund Padiami, were apprehended by the police following a complaint lodged by the deceased’s brother-in-law, Laxma Kabasi. The accused were presented before the court on Thursday.

The victim, Kabasi, as well as the accused, hail from Tandapalli village, emphasizing the shocking nature of the crime within the close-knit community.

During the course of the investigation, it was revealed that the prime accused, Muda, had lost his wife, Waghe Padiami, in December of the previous year. Additionally, his mother and grandfather had also passed away around two years ago. Muda, driven by superstitious beliefs, suspected Kabasi of casting black magic spells that led to the demise of his family members.

On Tuesday night, Muda and Mukund gruesomely murdered Kabasi by slitting his throat with a blade. They then disposed of his body by throwing it into the Sabari River, which flows through the neighboring Sukma district in Chhattisgarh. However, their heinous act was short-lived as the body was recovered from the river on Wednesday, and the accused were apprehended from their hideout.

“The accused persons have confessed to committing the crime out of suspicion related to black magic,” stated the Investigating Officer in charge of the Model Police Station in Malkangiri.

Superstition and lack of education remain persistent issues in tribal dominated areas, leading to such tragic incidents. The government and concerned authorities must take immediate action to address these root causes and work towards empowering these communities through education and awareness programs.

–IANS

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