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Telangana youth arrested in mother's death over suspected witchcraft belief

A 21-year-old man in Telangana has been arrested following the death of his 40-year-old mother, whom he allegedly assaulted and set ablaze in a village in Medak district. Authorities say the suspect believed his mother was practicing witchcraft.

LSN India · 11 October 2026

Telangana youth arrested in mother's death over suspected witchcraft belief

Police in Telangana's Medak district are investigating the death of a 40-year-old woman who died after being attacked and burned by her son in Elupeta village. The victim, identified as Syamma, was allegedly beaten by her 21-year-old son Durgesh before he poured diesel on her and set her on fire. She died at the scene from injuries sustained in the incident.

According to police reports, Durgesh was acting on a suspicion that his mother was engaged in witchcraft practices. The assault and subsequent burning occurred following an apparent dispute between mother and son over this accusation. Neighbors alerted authorities after witnessing the incident.

The case has reignited concerns about superstition-driven violence in rural areas of Telangana. Durgesh has been arrested and faces charges related to the death of his mother. Investigators are examining the circumstances that led to the violent confrontation and the beliefs that motivated the alleged attack.

Rural Telangana has witnessed similar cases in recent years where superstitious beliefs, particularly surrounding witchcraft accusations, have led to violence against women and vulnerable family members.