Odisha Sorcery Shocker: 77 Needles Removed from Girl's Head

A young woman in Odisha underwent surgeries to remove 77 needles from her skull after consulting a sorcerer for ongoing health issues. The patient remains under observation at VIMSAR, with authorities investigating the case amid concerns about other potential victims.

Doctors at Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) in Burla, Odisha, have successfully removed 77 needles from the skull of a sorcery victim in two separate surgeries. Neurosurgeons retrieved an additional seven needles during a follow-up procedure on Saturday.

Director Bhabagrahi Rath confirmed that no bone injuries were caused by the needles, though the patient, identified as 19-year-old Reshma Behera, has sustained soft tissue injuries. Behera remains under observation for post-operative care, with further checks needed to diagnose her other health issues conclusively.

Behera, frequently ill since her mother's death four years ago, had sought help from a sorcerer in 2021. Her condition prompted her eventual referral to VIMSAR after a CT scan at Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital revealed multiple needles in her head. Authorities have arrested the quack responsible, with an investigation ongoing to determine if there are additional victims.

(With inputs from agencies.)