Woman Suffers 40% Burns in Jharkhand Witchcraft Attack, NHRC Seeks Report

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a reported attack on a woman in Jharkhand’s Garhwa district after she was allegedly branded a witch and suffered severe burn injuries.

According to the report, the woman sustained around 40% burn injuries after a group of people allegedly poured boiling water on her in Bhojpur village. The alleged attackers are reported to be residents of the same village.

Taking note of the incident, the NHRC said that the reported facts, if found to be true, raise serious concerns over violation of human rights. The Commission has therefore issued notices to the Garhwa District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, seeking a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

The NHRC has directed that the report should specifically include details about the victim’s current health condition and whether any compensation has been provided to her. The authorities are also expected to furnish relevant information concerning the investigation into the alleged assault.

The incident reportedly came to light through a media report published on August 24. The woman was subsequently admitted to a hospital for medical treatment, while an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack is underway.

The Commission’s intervention comes amid concerns over violence linked to witchcraft accusations, which can result in serious physical and social abuse of vulnerable individuals in parts of India. Such accusations have frequently been associated with assault, ostracisation and, in some cases, killings.

By seeking a report from the district administration and police, the NHRC has sought to establish the facts of the case and determine whether the victim’s rights were violated. The Commission will examine the response from the authorities before deciding on further action.

The NHRC’s notice also places the responsibility on local authorities to ensure that the victim receives appropriate medical care and any compensation or relief that may be due under applicable provisions.