Rise in Witch-Hunting Attacks on Adivasi Women

In some parts of India, like Jharkhand, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, there has been a rise in attacks on Adivasi women accused of being witches.

Recently, a 65-year-old woman was even beheaded.

According to reports, the number of such cases doubled in 2023 compared to the previous year.

Despite laws to prevent these attacks, they continue to happen.

Two main reasons are the lack of healthcare facilities and the fact that Adivasi women often don't have rights to land.

When people get sick and traditional healers can't help, they sometimes blame women, especially those who are older or challenge traditional roles.

Additionally, women who inherit land without a son are often forced out by branding them as witches.

The government needs to improve healthcare and respect Adivasi customs to stop these attacks.