A four-year-old child, Manik Tripura, from the Kishor Para area, died after being bitten by a dog. The tragic incident highlights the dangers of relying on superstitious practices instead of seeking proper medical treatment.
The child was severely injured in the dog bite incident, which occurred approximately a month ago. Instead of taking the child to a hospital or consulting a doctor, the family, influenced by superstition, sought treatment from a traditional healer (Ojha). They attempted to cure the child through rituals, including chanting and animal sacrifices involving ducks, chickens, and pigeons.
Despite these efforts, the child’s condition deteriorated. He was finally taken to Monughat Hospital on Friday, but his condition was critical. Doctors at Monughat Hospital referred him to Dhalai District Hospital. Tragically, the child died in the ambulance while being transported.
The incident has ignited concerns about the persistence of superstition in the region, even after 77 years of independence. It raises questions about the effectiveness of efforts to promote scientific temper and modern healthcare practices.
