Belagavi: 21 influenced by jailed godman’s teachings rescued from mass suicide plot
Belagavi: In a shocking incident from Karnataka’s Belagavi district, as many as 21 people who were allegedly influenced by the sermons and writings of controversial Haryana-based godman Sant Rampal, currently serving a life sentence, had resolved to end their lives. Timely intervention by local authorities averted the tragedy.
The incident took place in Anantpur village of Athani taluk. Members of the Irakar family, Tukaram, Savitri, Ramesh, Vaishnavi, and others, totaling over 10 individuals, along with 11 more people from Uttar Pradesh, had collectively planned to give up their lives on September 8.
Police sources revealed that the group, deeply influenced by Rampal’s ideology, believed that “the Supreme God will come and take their lives away,” and were preparing for a ritualistic mass suicide.
As soon as the matter came to light, Chikkodi Sub-Divisional Officer Subhash Sampagavi rushed to the village, accompanied by police officials and local religious leaders. After holding detailed talks, the officials managed to convince the devotees that they were being misled by blind faith. Realizing the facts, all 21 individuals abandoned their decision.
Speaking on the issue, SDO Sampagavi warned, “Even in the 21st century, such superstitions send a dangerous message to society. True devotion means awakening inner awareness, not giving up life in the name of God. Strict action will be taken against those who encourage such acts."
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Couple, son 'hacked' to death over witchcraft suspicion in Jharkhand's Palamu
Medininagar (PTI): A couple and their 18-year-old son were allegedly hacked to death over suspicion of practising witchcraft in Jharkhand's Palamu, police said on Sunday.
Their minor daughter was also injured in the attack late on Saturday, a police officer said.
The bodies were recovered from their house on Sunday in Panki police station area, he said.
“Initial investigation suggests that the case is related to witchcraft suspicion,” Manoj Kumar Jha, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Lesliganj told PTI.
A manhunt is on to nab the culprits, Jha said.
The girl suffered severe injuries and has been admitted to a government hospital, he said.
The deceased have been identified as Vijay Bhuiyan (45), his wife Kalia Devi (40), and their son Chotu Bhuiyan.
The bodies have been sent to Medinirai Medical College and Hospital (MMCH) for post-mortem examination.
