It is alarming that many parents are resorting to local ‘pujaris’ for traditional cures or black magic, particularly in remote areas like Yeragadda village in Aheri taluka of Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. The parents of the recent victims share a similar narrative.

Images depicting the heartbroken parents carrying the lifeless bodies of their sons gained widespread attention in newspapers, leaving the entire nation in shock.

In response to this tragedy, the villagers have come together, vowing to eradicate superstition and stop consulting the local priest, who also acted as a witch doctor, using herbal remedies and dark magic for treatment.

The heartbreaking loss of the two brothers has prompted the revenue department to take action, leading officials to the area to launch targeted initiatives and awareness campaigns aimed at fighting superstitions.

Health officials are saying this isn’t just a one-off thing. They often find themselves stuck, trying to convince villagers who are set in their ways about traditional medicine. It’s a real struggle to get these folks to visit the Primary Health Centres (PHC) or sub-PHC for treatment. To tackle this, authorities are rolling out awareness campaigns to encourage people to use health facilities instead of relying on old remedies. This problem isn’t just happening in Maharashtra; it’s a nationwide issue.

Practitioners of black magic frequently label women as witches, and in extreme cases, they might even suggest sacrificing certain children. Recently, the district has been rocked by a growing fear of witchcraft. Back in May, someone was held down and tortured overnight in Gatta because they were suspected of practicing black magic. In another tragic incident, a couple in Barsewada was set on fire over similar claims. Plus, last December in Gadchiroli, an elderly couple and their grandchild were brutally killed, allegedly for being involved in witchcraft.