Telangana HRC seeks report on alleged torture of elderly woman over superstition
The Telangana State Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has sought a detailed report from the Bhadradri Kothagudem district collector over the alleged torture and inhuman treatment of an elderly woman on superstitious grounds.
The commission took suo motu cognisance of a news report published on September 22 about the alleged incident at Jinkalagudem village in Burgampadu mandal, a press release said.
According to the report, the woman was allegedly tortured after being suspected of being possessed by an evil spirit and of having been subjected to witchcraft.
She was allegedly taken to an isolated agricultural field, made to climb a tree and beaten with whips. The report also alleged that nails were driven under her hands and feet and that she was made to stand on them before being repeatedly beaten.
The woman allegedly became extremely weak and lost consciousness following the assault.
The incident was reported to have taken place in July and came to light recently after videos purportedly showing the alleged torture surfaced on social media.
Taking note of the allegations, TGHRC Chairperson Shameem Akther observed that, if found to be true, the incident would raise serious concerns about the woman's right to life and dignity and protection from cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment.
The commission has directed the district collector to submit a report covering the incident, the woman's present condition and medical treatment, action taken against those allegedly involved and preventive measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
The matter has been posted for October 27 for submission of the report, the release said.
