Sharmili Mallick

Keonjhar: A lower court today convicted three persons in connection with murder of a couple on suspicion of practicing witchcraft at Saharpur village under Nayakote police limits in Keonjhar district in 2014 and sentenced them to life imprisonment.

Keonjhar Additional District & Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Court found the trio -Basant Dehury, Gautam Penthei and Mitu Mallick guilty in the case and awarded life term. The court also slapped a fine of Rs 10,000 each.

Also Read: Woman Beaten Black & Blue, Paraded Naked Over Suspected Witchcraft

However, nine others who were also arrested in connection with the case have been acquitted by the court due to lack of evidence.

According to sources, the main accused Basant Dehury's son was not keeping well and often suffering from fever. Dehury blamed the elderly couple- identified as Rajendra Dehury and Jemamani of practicing sorcery and reason behind his son’s ill health.

Later, Dehury along with other 12 persons attacked them with sharp weapons on October 10, 2014 killing the couple on the spot.

Also Read: Man Beaten To Death On Suspicion Of Practising Witchcraft In Malkangiri

Following the incident, 12 persons were arrested by the Nayakote Police and investigation was launched.

(Edited By Ramakant Biswas)

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