A 55-year-old woman in Karnataka has died after being brutally beaten during an exorcism ritual. Her son and two self-proclaimed healers have been arrested in connection with the incident.
The horrific event took place in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka. The woman was allegedly possessed by an evil spirit, which led her family to seek the help of an exorcist. The exorcist, along with the woman's son and another individual, conducted a ritualistic beating to drive out the purported spirit.
According to police reports, the woman was subjected to severe physical violence during the exorcism. The perpetrators allegedly used stones and cold water in an attempt to force the spirit out of her body. The woman collapsed during the ritual and was rushed to a community hospital, where she was declared dead.
Police have registered a murder case against the woman's son and the two self-styled healers. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death and gathering evidence to support the charges. Superintendent of Police Mithun Kumar visited the location.
This is not an isolated incident. In 2022, a self-proclaimed godman and his brother were sentenced to life imprisonment for beating a three-year-old girl to death during an exorcism ritual in Karnataka. The girl was suffering from night terrors, and her parents believed that the godman could exorcise the evil spirits. The men beat the child with sticks, and she died from her injuries.
Such incidents highlight the dangers of superstition and the need for greater awareness about mental health issues. Night terrors, for example, are a common childhood disorder that can be effectively treated with medical intervention.
These incidents also raise concerns about the potential for abuse and violence within religious and spiritual practices. While faith can be a source of comfort and strength for many, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with extremist beliefs and practices.
Authorities are urging people to report any suspected cases of abuse or violence in the name of religion or spirituality. It is crucial to protect vulnerable individuals from harm and ensure that those responsible for such acts are brought to justice.
