No one is safe in Bihar: Congress after 5 of family burnt to death alive
Politics has simmered in poll-bound Bihar after Congress on Monday claimed that nobody is safe in the state under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar-led JDU-BJP government.
The party’s reaction came following the incident of July 6 in the state’s Purina district at Tetgama village where five of a family, including three women, were beaten and then burnt alive over allegations of practicing witchcraft.
“They were beaten first. Their hands and feet were broken. Then they were half-burnt, following which petrol and diesel was poured on them. Then they were charred to death," Congress leader and chairman of All India Adivasi Congress Dr Vikrant Bhuria told reporters at Indira Bhawan here.
He said that one victim even tried to jump into a nearby water body to save himself, however, he was dragged back using a fishing rod and then again set on fire.
“Their brothers were made to watch this. As many as 200 to 250 people were involved. They were all under the influence of alcohol. We saw bottles lying when we reached there," said Dr Bhuria.
He also termed alcohol ban a ‘myth’ in the state, saying that while water is still not easily available, alcohol can be found conveniently in the state. He said the incident took place due to superstition.
“There is fear in the village. No one lives in the village now," he said.
He said his party leader Rahul Gandhi has assured the victims’ relatives that he is with them and will do everything to get perpetrators booked.
Dr Bhuria also expressed resentment over the CM not issuing any statement in the matter. “Why isn’t the CM bothered about this incident? Is this a routine for the state now? No statement from CM’s office," said Dr Bhuria.
He echoed leader Rahul Gandhi’s earlier remarks that Bihar has been turned into ‘crime capital of India’.
He further added that the victims’ relatives should be compensated and provided security, while the case should be dealt in a fast track court to book the accused.
He held Nitish Kumar and BJP responsible for the ‘atrocities’ against tribals and termed it a ploy to force them to vacate their labs so that the government can provide them to corporates like Adanis and Ambanis.
He also referred to the recent killing of a BJP leader in the state, saying, “even BJP people are not safe in Bihar. Nitish Kumar and BJP are responsible for this.”
India