Crime – Ritual Killing Case Shocks Hazaribagh Village Community
Crime – A shocking incident has come to light from Kusumbha village in Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh district, where a 13-year-old girl was allegedly killed as part of a ritual practice. The police have arrested three individuals, including the victim’s mother, in connection with the case.
Police Confirm Arrest of Three Accused
Senior police officials, including Hazaribagh Superintendent of Police Anjani Anjan and DIG Anjani Jha, confirmed late Wednesday that three people have been taken into custody. The accused include the victim’s 35-year-old mother, Reshmi Devi, a 55-year-old woman identified as an occult practitioner, and a 40-year-old man, Bhim Ram. All three belong to the same village where the incident occurred.
Alleged Motive Linked to Superstitious Beliefs
According to investigators, the child’s mother had been seeking help from the occult practitioner for her younger son, who reportedly suffers from physical and mental health issues. During these consultations, the practitioner allegedly suggested that sacrificing a young girl would cure the boy’s condition. This claim became the basis for the crime, as per police findings.
Incident Took Place During Festival Period
The killing is believed to have taken place on March 24, which coincided with Ashtami during the Ram Navami festival. Authorities stated that the crime was carried out at the residence of the occult practitioner while the rest of the village was engaged in celebrations, making it easier for the accused to avoid immediate suspicion.
Details of the Crime and Investigation
Police investigations revealed that the girl was allegedly strangled by her mother and Bhim Ram. Authorities also suspect that the occult practitioner played an active role in the ritual. It is further alleged that Bhim Ram struck the girl’s head to collect blood as part of the act. After the killing, the body was buried in a nearby garden in an attempt to conceal the crime.
Initially, the accused reportedly tried to mislead authorities by claiming that the girl had been raped and murdered by unknown individuals. However, post-mortem and forensic reports did not support any evidence of sexual assault, prompting investigators to pursue other angles, which eventually led to the arrests.
Previous Criminal Background and Legal Attention
Officials also disclosed that one of the accused, Bhim Ram, has been linked to previous criminal cases, including allegations of involvement in earlier murders. This has raised further concerns about his role in the incident.
The case has drawn significant attention from the judiciary as well. The Jharkhand High Court has taken suo motu cognisance based on media reports and has issued notices to the state administration and the Director General of Police, seeking accountability and updates on the investigation.
Discovery of the Body and Public Reaction
The victim’s body was recovered on March 25 from a field under suspicious circumstances. At the time, her mother had claimed that the girl had been abducted, which initially diverted the investigation.
The incident triggered strong reactions in the region. The Opposition BJP organized a 12-hour bandh in Hazaribagh to protest the incident and demand strict action against those responsible.
National Commission for Women Steps In
Taking serious note of the case, the National Commission for Women has formed a three-member inquiry committee. The panel is expected to visit the village, gather facts on the ground, and submit a detailed report within 10 working days.
Describing the incident as deeply concerning, the Commission emphasized the urgent need to ensure safety for women and children. It has called for a thorough and impartial investigation so that justice is delivered without delay.