Widow gang-raped in Bihar

 The incident took place near Bhagalpur in eastern Bihar, some 300 km from the state Capital.

The 50-year-old victim earned her livelihood by selling vegetables, but was suspected to be practising witchcraft.

The widow has been admitted to Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital at Bhagalpur. The Superintendent of the hospital, Dr Arjun Kumar Singh, confirmed that stones were found in her private parts. “The stones have been removed, and the victim has been shifted to the gynaecology ward,” Singh said.

The police have registered a complaint in this connection on the basis of the victims’ statement. The widow has named Anil Das, Fauzdari Das, Sikandar Das and Mika Das as the accused, who intercepted her while she was returning home after selling vegetables. After physically assaulting her and snatching whatever little amount she had, the widow was   gang-raped and tortured.

According to the complaint, the accused had been harassing her for the last five months. Her trouble started when the six-month-old daughter of Anil Das passed away due to some unknown disease. However, the widow was held responsible as she was suspected of practising witchcraft.

The superintendent of police has said strict action will be taken against the culprits if the allegations are found to be true. Meanwhile, the victim has been provided police security, and a detailed medical report is awaited.