Accusations of witchcraft: A form of violence against women in Nepal. (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Atreya, Alok; Aryal, Shreyashi; Nepal, Samata; Nepal, Binu
• Is Part Of: Medicine, science and the law. Volume 61:Number 2(2021)
• Page Start: 147
• Page End: 149
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: Violence against women -- Nepal -- witchcraft; Forensic sciences -- Periodicals; Medical laws and legislation -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 614.105
• DOI: 10.1177/0025802421998222
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-8024

Abstract

Accusations of witchcraft and witch-hunting activities remain serious problems in Nepal, where many women are subjected to violence or torture following accusation and persecution. Many experience serious physical and mental injury, and some die. However, most of these incidents are not reported because women and their families fear reprisals. Poverty, systemic gender inequality and weak state laws provide a context in which this behaviour occurs. Allegations of witchcraft will, however, not be fully eradicated without improvements in education and legal safeguards.