Overview

• A 55-year-old woman named Geetamma died after a prolonged exorcism ritual in Shivamogga district on July 6–7
• Shivamogga police registered murder charges against her son Sanjay and healers Asha and Santosh, who were arrested by July 8
• A graphic video showing the use of lemons, slaps and stick blows circulated online and triggered widespread shock across the region
• Local officials and villagers are demanding tighter legal oversight of unregulated faith healers to curb superstition-driven violence
• Community leaders are planning mental health awareness programs to educate residents and prevent similar tragedies