Birubala Rabha: The Brave Advocate Against Witch Hunts in India
In a country where superstitions and folk beliefs still hold sway, the victims of witch hunts face unimaginable horrors. According to a 2015 report by the Indian legal nonprofit Partners for Law in Development, those accused of being witches can be subjected to brutal punishments such as forcible stripping, public humiliation, physical mutilation, and even death.
One woman, Birubala Rabha, has made it her life’s mission to stand up against this barbaric practice. Traveling from village to village in Assam, she boldly declares that there is no such thing as “daini,” or witches. Her advocacy work began in earnest in the early 2000s, fueled by a personal experience when a local medicine man falsely predicted the death of her mentally ill son.
In 2000, Birubala stood up in support of five women accused of witchcraft in the village of Lakhipur, despite facing backlash from hundreds of villagers. She continued her fearless advocacy, even facing down a violent mob during a rescue mission in a neighboring state in 2006.
Birubala’s courage and determination have not gone unnoticed. She formed an alliance with the former police director general of Assam, Kuladhar Saikia, who praised her for standing up against social injustice. Despite facing numerous challenges and threats, Birubala remains steadfast in her mission to end the brutal practice of witch hunts in India.
Her colleague, Usha Rabha, recalled a moment when Birubala faced a stick-bearing mob with unwavering resolve. “I was terrified,” Usha said, “but Birubala was completely unfazed.” Even when the police came to rescue them, Birubala refused to back down, declaring, “I will not stop until I finish the work that I do.”
Birubala Rabha’s bravery and dedication serve as a beacon of hope for the victims of witch hunts in India. As she continues to fight against social injustice and superstition, she remains a true hero in the ongoing battle for justice and equality.
