Assam: Three families in Gossaingaon ostracized, accused of witchcraft

Three families in Alinagar ostracised as witches, live in fear for three years amidst social exclusion and harassment

In a shocking incident of social ostracism, three families in Alinagar village under Gosaingaon sub-division have been living in constant fear for the past three years after being branded as witches by sections of the local community. Despite filing a complaint with the sub-divisional magistrate on August 7, seeking protection, the families continue to face threats and harassment with no action from the authorities.

The issue reportedly began three years ago following the death of a village elder, the father of Ganesh Soren, who is a prominent figure in the village. Since the elder’s death, three women have been accused of practicing witchcraft, and their families have been shunned from society. Ganesh Soren, along with other villagers, has allegedly been leading the harassment campaign against these women, subjecting them to verbal abuse and threats.

As a form of punishment, villagers have imposed a fine of Rs 500 on anyone who visits the homes of the ostracized families. In addition, Soren has reportedly demanded Rs 30,000 to reintegrate the families into the community.

Despite the families’ desperate efforts to seek legal intervention, including the complaint filed in early August, no official response has been received, leaving the families vulnerable to ongoing threats. The situation remains tense as the families continue to live in isolation, fearing for their safety.

Local authorities have yet to comment on the case, but human rights activists are calling for urgent intervention to protect the targeted families from further violence and social exclusion.