Indore Police Register Case Against Occultist for Assault During Exorcism Ritual
Aerodrome police in Indore have taken decisive action by registering a formal case against a self-styled occultist accused of brutally assaulting a woman during what was purported to be an exorcism ritual. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community, involved the alleged use of an iron tong to beat the victim under the false pretext of removing an evil spirit from her body.
Details of the Alleged Assault
According to police reports, the accused, identified as Suresh Koshal, a resident of Mahavir Nagar in Chhota Bangarda, is facing serious charges for his actions. The complaint was lodged by the victim's mother, Mamta, who detailed a harrowing sequence of events that unfolded over two days. Her daughter, Shalini, had been suffering from prolonged illness, leading the family to seek alternative treatments in desperation.
On March 10, Mamta took Shalini to Koshal for a ritual, hoping it would provide relief. During the initial consultation, the occultist allegedly gave Shalini cloves, lemon, and sacred ash, instructing her to consume them at home and return the following night for further proceedings.
Violent Turn of Events
When the mother and daughter returned as directed, Koshal reportedly made Shalini sit outside his gate and commenced the ritual. It was during this process that the situation turned violent. The accused claimed that an evil spirit had taken residence in Shalini's body and, without warning, began beating her with an iron tong. As the assault intensified, Shalini's screams echoed through the neighborhood.
Hearing her daughter's cries, Mamta rushed to intervene, only to become a target herself. Koshal allegedly turned the tong on her, insisting that the beating was a necessary part of the treatment to drive out the possessing spirit. The violence only ceased when the victim's brother-in-law and a neighbor arrived at the scene, though the accused reportedly threatened them as well.
Police Investigation and Legal Action
DCP Krishna Lalchandani confirmed that the mother and daughter approached Aerodrome police station on Thursday to file their complaint. Following their report, police conducted thorough medical examinations of both victims to document their injuries. Based on the evidence and statements collected, an FIR has been registered against Suresh Koshal under relevant sections for assault and harassment under false pretence.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about fraudulent practices and violence masquerading as spiritual healing in some communities. Authorities are continuing their investigation to ensure justice is served and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
