A shocking case of suspected witch-hunting has surfaced from Sidu Hathai Kami Khuipolwng, Atharobulab area in Tripura South District where a 55-year-old man, Jaban Bakta Jamatia, was allegedly beaten to death by villagers on accusations of practicing black magic.

The incident took place shortly after 12:25 AM on November 25, when a group of people reportedly stormed into the victim’s home, dragged him outside, and assaulted him. 

He succumbed to the injuries at the scene.

His wife, Surja Rani Jamatia (50), is believed to be under severe intimidation and has been forcibly silenced, unable to speak about the incident. Their two children are reportedly living in fear.

Local witnesses reported a heartbreaking scene the helpless cries of the victim’s young granddaughter, heard repeatedly during and after the attack.

The child, too young to understand the brutality unfolding before her eyes, reportedly kept crying for her grandfather to be left alone. Her voice, filled with confusion and fear, has been described by neighbors as “the sound no one could forget.”

However, despite her cries — and despite witnesses — no one stepped forward to stop the violence.

Although authorities have yet to issue an official statement, initial information indicates that the murder was driven by deep-rooted superstition. 

Despite progress in education and governance, the persistence of such incidents raises serious concerns. Activists argue that superstition continues to overpower reason and humanity in vulnerable regions.

“This is not just a murder — this is a warning that belief can become a weapon when unchecked,” said a local social worker. “When a child’s cries cannot stop violence, we must ask ourselves: what kind of society are we becoming?”

Human rights groups and civil society members are calling for:

 •A fair and immediate investigation

 •Arrests of those responsible

 •Protection and psychological support for the affected family

 •Awareness programs in rural and tribal areas

 •Stronger legal measures and enforcement to prevent mob violence

Many fear that without intervention, more families will meet similar fates.