Sat Jan 03 06:53:24 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

On December 30, 2025, in Karbi Anglong district, Assam, a couple, Gardi Beruwa and his wife Mira Beruwa, were murdered by villagers who suspected them of practicing witchcraft. Police have arrested 18 people, including four women, in connection with the crime. Authorities are investigating the incident, have collected evidence, and are invoking the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The incident highlights the continued existence of witch-hunting related violence in the region.

News Article:

18 Arrested in Assam Witch-Hunting Murder Case

Karbi Anglong, Assam, January 3, 2026 – Assam police have arrested 18 individuals, including four women, in connection with the brutal murder of a couple in Karbi Anglong district. Gardi Beruwa, 46, and his wife, Mira Beruwa, were allegedly killed by villagers on December 30, 2025, after being accused of practicing witchcraft.

According to police reports, authorities received a phone call late evening indicating the incident at Village 1 No. Beloguri Munda Gaon. Upon arrival, officers found the Beruwa’s home vandalized and evidence of a fire. It is believed the couple was murdered and their bodies burned in the front yard.

Akhilesh Kumar Singh, Inspector General of Police (Law & Order), stated, “We can’t tolerate this type of heinous crime. After collecting evidence, we have arrested 18 people so far. Scientific investigation will be conducted. Justice will be given here also.” He referenced a previous case in Sivasagar where 23 people were sentenced to life imprisonment for a similar crime.

Police have registered a suo-motu case under the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act and relevant Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Investigators have seized soil mixed with blood, a wooden stick, and other potential evidence from the scene.

This incident underscores the ongoing issue of witch-hunting related violence in certain parts of India, despite laws aimed at preventing such acts. Authorities are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice and send a strong message against this abhorrent practice.

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