Administrator
24 October 2024
The debate was organized at the National University of Study and Research in Law (NUSRL) Ranchi. The co-organizer was the Centre for Panchayati Raj and Women's Empowerment.
The subject of discussion centred around "Echoes of Injustice against Women: Unveiling Dark Testimony of Witch Hunts in Rural Jharkhand." The discussion took place inside NUSRL complex on Wednesday.
Padma Shri Chhutni Mahto was invited to be the chief speaker for this discussion. Other participants included Akriti Lakra (Independent Researcher), Jenny Toppo (Lecturer in Tribal Studies at St. Xavier's College, Ranchi), and Shivani Priya (Social Worker, Child Welfare Association NGO).
Dr. Sangeeta Laha, the faculty convener of the Centre for Panchayati Raj and Women's Empowerment, and Dr. Jisu Ketan Patnaik, Assistant Registrar of the university, were also present.
The program began with the lighting of the lamp after this children performed a play focusing on the conditions under which women are labeled as witches and killed in villages. Dr. Sangeeta Laha explained the various works done by the Panchayati Raj Department, emphasizing the importance of understanding village and panchayat issues.
She thanked VC Prof. Ashok R. Patil for his support in organizing this event. Padma Shri Chhutni Mahto shared her struggle, recounting how she had to flee with her children after being labeled a witch by villagers.
She stated, "Today, the same person whom society declared a witch has received the Padma Shri award." Akriti Lakra mentioned her extensive work on this issue, stating, "Our society does not accept strong women."
Jenny Toppo highlighted that statistics reveal the continued existence of witch hunts in Jharkhand, with many cases remaining unreported. Shivani Priya explained that not only women but also children are affected by witch hunts. She shared an example of a family in Khunti, where a boy had to drop out of school to care for his mother after she was attacked by villagers. This event aimed to raise awareness about women's rights and their empowerment in society.
