A Gajapati court sentences 12 people to life imprisonment for the 2021 murder of a father and son over witchcraft suspicions
OdishaPlus Bureau
A court in Gajapati district on Thursday sentenced 12 people to life imprisonment for the murder of a father and his son five years ago over allegations of practising witchcraft.
Additional District and Sessions Judge Hara Prasad Pattnaik convicted all 12 accused under Section 302/34 of the IPC and sentenced them to life imprisonment. The court also imposed a fine of ₹10,000 on each convict. In default of payment, they will undergo an additional six months of rigorous imprisonment.
The convicts are Joshua Gamang (36), Benjamin Gamang (40), Sanjay Gamang (28), Abhimanyu Raika (35), Kandra Gamang (67), Mikhail Gamang (55), Seto Raika (42), Jirimia Raika (42), Abraham Badoraeit (45), Junes Rait (40), Kura Rait (60) and Somnath Gamang (45), all residents of Mutaguda Saura Sahi under Adava police station limits.
According to the prosecution, the accused called Luk Dalabehera, a resident, from his house at around 5 pm on June 12, 2021. He was taken to a village meeting where he was accused of practising witchcraft. His son, Anuk, was later summoned to the meeting.
Around 11 pm, the accused allegedly dragged the father and son towards the outskirts of the village and assaulted them. Anuk sustained a deep cut injury to his neck but managed to escape and reach home.
Before collapsing, he reportedly pointed towards the direction where his father was lying. Luk was subsequently found dead.
On June 13, 2021, the victim’s daughter lodged a complaint at Adava police station. A case was registered, and the accused were arrested.
During the trial, the prosecution examined 23 witnesses and produced 27 documentary exhibits to establish the charges.
Additional Public Prosecutor Saroj Kumar Rath conducted the prosecution.