Deep-rooted superstitions in rural Jharkhand fueled a heinous crime in Ranchi’s Taladith village. Etwari fell victim to a contract killing masterminded by her devar, Sonaram Lohra, who believed she bewitched his children to death. Shot at point-blank, her body was hurled into chulha flames on February 1 to fabricate an accident story. Six men now in custody after postmortem truth emerged.
Tamar police arrived at the scene post-fire report, securing the charred remains for RIMS autopsy. Shockingly, it revealed a head gunshot as the cause of death, not burns.
Directed by SSP, SP Praveen Pushkar’s squad apprehended locals Sonaram Lohra, Soma Lohra, Lakhichand Lohra, Kalicharan Lohra, Amit Lohra, and Vishnu Mahto. Sonaram’s interrogation laid bare the motive: ‘Her jadu-tona killed my two kids,’ he claimed, admitting the Rs 2 lakh payoff.
The ploy to conceal the bullet wound via fire backfired spectacularly. Police seized a country pistol, two bikes, and phones from the gang.
Such incidents plague the region, highlighting the deadly cost of ignorance. Comprehensive reforms—education, counseling, legal crackdowns—are essential to eradicate this menace and protect vulnerable lives.