Bengaluru, India: A 65-year-old woman has been arrested in the southern Indian state of Karnataka after allegedly attempting to influence the outcome of a land dispute case by performing black magic inside a courtroom, an incident that has sparked renewed debate over superstition and the justice system in India.
According to Indian media reports, the woman allegedly entered the courtroom and scattered white mustard seeds on the judge’s chair and the dais. Authorities believe she carried out the act in the hope that it would help her secure a favorable verdict in her ongoing land dispute case.
Court staff became suspicious after discovering the white mustard seeds on the judge’s seat and immediately reported the matter. Officials subsequently reviewed CCTV footage installed inside the courthouse, which reportedly showed the woman approaching the judge’s chair and scattering the seeds.
Following the review of the surveillance footage, court authorities lodged a formal complaint with the local police. The woman was later identified, taken into custody, and charged in connection with the incident.
Police officials said that during preliminary questioning, the woman admitted that she believed the ritual would increase her chances of winning the legal battle over the disputed property.
The accused was later produced before a local court, which ordered her to be remanded in judicial custody for 14 days while the investigation continues.
The unusual incident has triggered widespread discussion in India about superstition, alleged black magic practices, and their place in modern society, particularly within judicial institutions. Police have confirmed that further investigations are underway to determine all the circumstances surrounding the case.
Read also: Modi-Led India Skips Funeral of Khamenei to Please Israel
