Archive · 23 Sep 2026
Telangana Rights Panel Seeks Report on Elderly Woman’s Torture
A human rights commission in Telangana is investigating the alleged torture of an elderly woman.
People reportedly accused her of being possessed by an evil spirit or involved in witchcraft.
The woman was allegedly taken to a field away from others.
She was reportedly beaten and seriously harmed.
A news report said nails were placed under her hands and feet.
Videos said to show the incident later circulated on social media.
The commission asked a district official to investigate and report what happened.
It also wants information about her health, medical care, and action against the people accused.
The commission will consider the matter again on October 27.
The Telangana State Human Rights Commission sought a detailed report from the Bhadradri Kothagudem district collector.
The elderly woman was allegedly tortured on suspicion of evil spirit possession and witchcraft.
She was reportedly taken to an isolated field, forced to climb a tree, and beaten with whips.
The report alleged that nails were placed under her hands and feet and that she lost consciousness after repeated beatings.
The commission requested details on her condition, medical treatment, action against those involved, and preventive measures; the matter is scheduled for October 27.
- Who
- The Telangana State Human Rights Commission, led by Chairperson Shameem Akther, sought information from the Bhadradri Kothagudem district collector about an elderly woman’s alleged torture.
- What
- The woman was allegedly subjected to severe physical torture and inhuman treatment because of suspicions about evil spirits and witchcraft.
- When
- The alleged incident reportedly occurred in July 2026, came to light recently, and was taken up by the commission on September 23; the next hearing is scheduled for October 27.
- Where
- Jinkalagudem village in Burgampadu mandal, Bhadradri Kothagudem district, Telangana.
- Why
- The commission acted after a September 22 news report and sought to examine possible violations of the woman’s right to life and dignity and protection from cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment.
- Commission
- Telangana State Human Rights Commission
- District official asked to report
- Bhadradri Kothagudem district collector
- Reported location
- Jinkalagudem village, Burgampadu mandal
- Alleged motive
- Suspicion of evil spirit possession and witchcraft
- Reported injuries and treatment
- The woman was allegedly beaten, harmed with nails, weakened, and rendered unconscious; her present condition and medical treatment are to be reported.
- Next date
- October 27
- Evidence mentioned
- Videos purportedly showing the alleged torture circulated on social media.