Tragic Outcome of Witchcraft: Woman Battles for Life After Sorcerer’s Treatment with Needles, 73 Needles Removed from Head in Vimsar
In a shocking incident from Balangir district’s Kantabanji police jurisdiction, Jamutjhula village in Shantipada has witnessed the tragic consequences of witchcraft. A village sorcerer, Tejaraj Rana from Jamutjhula, has been jailed after performing a treatment on Reshma Behera from Ich village under Sindhekela police station, resulting in severe injuries.
According to reports, in 2021, Tejaraj treated a young woman from Ich village who, after her mother’s death, often exhibited sudden fright and panic. Despite various medical examinations, her condition did not improve. Subsequently, under the influence of local beliefs, her family decided that witchcraft was the only solution.
Sorcerer’s Ritual with Needles Causes Severe Injuries
During the ritual, Tejaraj, the sorcerer, inserted numerous needles into the young woman’s head and hands, causing significant bleeding. Family members reported that there were injuries all over her body. Later, after removing more than eight needles from her head, her father, Bishnu Behera, mentioned that a CT scan revealed over 30 additional needles. The family alleges that four years ago, a similar treatment was attempted, nearly leading to the young woman’s death. It is claimed that the family paid the sorcerer lakhs of rupees during this time.
Medical Intervention at Bhima Bhoi Medical College
Due to the worsening health condition of the young woman, the family admitted her to Bhima Bhoi Medical College in Balangir. Following a complaint at the Kantabanji police station, the police arrested Tejaraj. As his bail plea was rejected, he was remanded to judicial custody.
Surgical Removal of Needles at Vimsar
In a subsequent development, the young woman was transferred to Vimsar, Sambalpur, for surgical intervention. A team of ten doctors performed the surgery, successfully removing 73 injection needles from her head. According to Vimsar, the young woman is now in stable condition.