A man in Kollam district, Kerala, allegedly poured hot fish curry on his wife’s face following a dispute over black magic rituals, leaving her with serious burns.
The victim, Rejila Gafoor, aged 36, was reportedly asked by her husband, Sajeer, to loosen her hair and allow him to apply ashes and tie a locket said to have been given by a black magic practitioner; when she refused, he assaulted her.
Police registered a case under Section 118(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for causing hurt using dangerous means, and Sajeer is currently absconding. Neighbours helped rush Rejila to hospital, where she is receiving treatment. The couple had a troubled history involving belief in possession and black magic, with past attacks by Sajeer reported to the police.
Background of the Incident
The alleged incident happened around 10 am on a recent Wednesday in the rented house of the couple at Vaikkal near Chadayamangalam in Kollam district. According to the police first information report (FIR), Sajeer demanded that Rejila loosen her hair, sit before him, and permit him to apply ashes and tie a black magic locket on her body.
This locket was reportedly given by a local black magic practitioner whom Sajeer frequently consulted. When Rejila resisted and refused to comply with these demands, Sajeer allegedly poured hot fish curry that was being cooked in the kitchen over her face and neck. Her screams attracted neighbours who intervened promptly and took her to hospital for treatment.
Domestic Abuse, Black Magic Beliefs
The police revealed Sajeer allegedly believed his wife was possessed by evil spirits, which had triggered his turn to black magic as a means to “cure” her. This belief led to repeated violent behaviour against Rejila, including assaults on both her and their son.
The police have categorized this act under Section 118(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to causing hurt through dangerous means. Officers are actively searching for Sajeer, who remains at large. This case sheds light on the dark intersection of superstition and domestic violence, where unfounded fears and misconceptions can escalate into physical harm and emotional trauma.
Wider Implications and Humanitarian Concerns
This case exposes a concerning pattern seen in some pockets of society where superstition, such as belief in possession and black magic, can endanger vulnerable family members, especially women and children. The psychological and physical toll on victims is severe, often made worse by social stigma and lack of adequate support systems. Rejila’s ordeal reminds us of the urgent need to address how such beliefs can perpetuate violence and prevent victims from seeking help.
Community awareness programs about the dangers of superstition, along with stronger implementation of laws protecting victims of domestic abuse, are critical. Support from mental health professionals could also mitigate such tragedies by helping individuals and families to overcome harmful beliefs without resorting to violence. Such interventions are important not only for those directly affected but for the social fabric at large.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian condemns violence and urges society to reject superstition-driven abuse. This incident highlights the necessity of promoting values of empathy, rational thinking, and respect within families and communities.
Violence justified by superstition undermines human dignity and obstructs peaceful coexistence. By fostering dialogue around mental health, legal rights, and debunking harmful myths, society can advance towards more harmonious relationships.
