Renowned activist against witch-hunting, Birubala Rabha, passes away at 70

GUWAHATI: Birubala Rabha, a revered human rights activist and Padma Shri awardee, breathed her last this morning at 9:23 am in Guwahati. Rabha.

Rabha, who dedicated her life to combatting the scourge of witch-hunting, succumbed to advanced stage three cancer after a brave battle at the State Cancer Institute in Guwahati.

Rabha had been admitted to the institute since April 22, battling the terminal disease.

Despite initial signs of improvement upon her transfer to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on May 4, her health eventually deteriorated, leading to her untimely demise today.

The state government, recognising Rabha’s invaluable contributions to society, had pledged to cover the expenses of her medical treatment.

The decision was taken by Cabinet Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary following his visit to the medical institute last Saturday to assess Rabha’s health condition.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed profound grief at Rabha’s passing, taking to social media to convey his condolences.

“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,” he remarked.

Rabha’s legacy transcends her battle with cancer, epitomising her unwavering commitment to social justice.

As a tireless advocate, she spearheaded extensive campaigns against witch-hunting, instrumental in the enactment of the Prevention of and Protection from Witch Hunting Act, 2015, by the Assam Government.

Her organisation, Mission Birubala, continues to champion her cause, educating communities about the perils of witch-hunting and ensuring her legacy endures.

Born in 1954 in Thakurvila village near the Meghalaya border in Assam’s Goalpara district, Rabha’s early life was marked by hardship.

Orphaned at a young age, she forwent formal education to support her family, later marrying at fifteen and raising three children.

Rabha’s unwavering dedication garnered widespread recognition, earning her numerous accolades.

Gauhati University conferred upon her an honorary Doctorate in 2015, and in 2021, she was honoured with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, for her exceptional contributions to society.