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Allegations of Child Abuse Linked to Superstitious Beliefs

A disturbing incident has come to light in the Bhandup locality of Mumbai, where local authorities have taken a husband and wife into custody for allegedly inflicting harm on the son of their domestic worker, driven by superstitious beliefs. The police initiated action following a complaint lodged by the maid.

According to police reports, the couple is accused of subjecting the two-and-a-half-year-old boy to severe mistreatment as part of a misguided attempt to rid him of supposed evil spirits. The child, who sustained serious injuries, is currently receiving medical care at Wadia Hospital in Parel. In response to the incident, the Bhandup police have filed charges against the couple under the Prevention and Eradication of Black Magic Act, the Child Protection Act, and laws pertaining to inhumane practices, including those related to human sacrifice.

The arrested individuals have been identified as 35-year-old Vaibhav Kokre and his 32-year-old wife, Harshada Kokre, both residents of Bhandup West. They are employed in the local water supply sector. The domestic worker, aged 37, had been bringing her young son to work with her for several weeks. The couple reportedly grew suspicious of the child, believing he was possessed due to his frequent crying. In an attempt to 'cleanse' him, they resorted to beating him with a cane and burning him with matches over a span of four to five days. The mother also faced harassment from the couple under the guise of witchcraft and exorcism.