Buxar: In a horrifying case that has sent shockwaves through Bihar’s Buxar district, a man has been found guilty of raping his own two minor daughters for years, reportedly on the advice of a tantrik (occultist) who claimed it would lead to the birth of a son. On Tuesday, the local POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) court in Buxar district delivered its verdict, sentencing the accused father, Binod Kumar Singh, and the tantrik, Ajay Kumar, to life in prison. Additionally, the court handed down 20 years of imprisonment to the mother and aunt of the rape survivors, who were found to have instigated the accused persons for these heinous crimes.

The horrific ordeal endured by the minor sisters had persisted for an agonizing decade until they found the courage to report the matter to the police, who swiftly registered the case and initiated legal proceedings.

Social scientists express concerns over deep-rooted patriarchy

Prominent social scientists have raised alarm over the deeply disturbing incident, highlighting the pressing need for society to take appropriate action to prevent the erosion of cherished social values. Professor Sachindra Narayan, a leading voice in the field, lamented the incident, attributing such tragedies to the prevalence of illiteracy in society. He emphasized the need to recognize the accomplishments of daughters and break free from traditional discrimination against them.

“Daughters have excelled in various fields, and we should take pride in their achievements,” Professor Narayan declared, citing examples of women who have excelled in civil services and space missions.

Another distinguished social scientist, Professor BN Prasad, told TOI that such horrific incidents would persist until the deeply ingrained patriarchal value system is adequately challenged by women themselves. He pointed out that society’s perception of daughters as ‘paraya dhan’ (someone else’s wealth) and sons as natural inheritors perpetuates these issues.

Urgent need for societal change: Challenging patriarchy for a brighter future

Professor Prasad further questioned why such beliefs persist in a world where scientific advancements have led to moon landings and solar explorations. He called for a fundamental shift in societal norms and attitudes to ensure a safer and more equitable environment for all.

The police investigation revealed that the accused father, desperate to have a son, had sought advice from a local tantrik in 2012. Shockingly, the tantrik advised him to commit the abhorrent act of raping his own daughters. Although the accused later had a son, the tantrik continued to threaten the boy’s life and insisted on the ongoing abuse of the girls. Subsequently, the tantrik himself began to commit these heinous crimes.

After enduring unimaginable suffering, the two sisters managed to escape from their home in May of the previous year and bravely reported their traumatic experiences to the local police. The authorities responded swiftly, ensuring a speedy trial that ultimately led to the incarceration of all those involved.