Assam: Padma Shri Birubala Rabha, Anti-Witch Hunting Activist, Passes Away Battling Cancer

Renowned activist and Padma Shri awardee, Birubala Rabha, breathed her last at a government-run hospital in Guwahati after a prolonged battle with cancer. Rabha, born in 1954 in Thakurvila village near the Meghalaya border in Assam’s Goalpara district, dedicated her life to combating superstition and societal evils like witch-hunting.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his condolences, stating, “I am deeply distressed to learn about the passing away of Padma Shri Smt. Birubala Rabha. Through her untiring efforts to end social evils, she illuminated the paths of scores of women with hope and confidence. Rising through a challenging life, she epitomized courage against all odds. Assam will forever remain grateful for her leadership in serving society. Om Shanti.”

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also mourned Rabha’s demise, highlighting her relentless battle against superstitions and prejudices. He stated, “Padma Shri Awardee Birubala Rabha baideo battled against the superstitions and prejudices entrenched in society, exemplifying the strength of women through unwavering determination and courage.”

In 2015, the Assam Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention, and Protection) Act, 2015, largely influenced by Rabha’s advocacy. Her passing marks the end of an era.

Recognizing her significant contributions, the government of India honored her with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2021.

Her activism gained momentum following a distressing incident in 1985 when her son was misdiagnosed by a village quack.