Eradicating Witch Hunts in Nepal

Synopsis

Many people in Nepal turn to local shamans for everything from the timing of weddings and moves to treating illnesses. Some shamans single out local women as witches, claiming that they caused illnesses or tragedies. The resulting witch hunts sometimes end in physical abuse, and there are around 30 reported cases a year. The falsely accused women may be hit, kicked and forced to eat excrement. We speak with victims of these witch hunts, as well as to some NGOs that provide victims with support and are working to eradicate this terrible practice.

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