Hindu organisations in the country are calling for a thorough investigation into the death of Sangeeta Persaud, the 14-year-old who died after an ‘exorcism’ last month, saying it is a matter of great urgency because of a certain allegation which has been raised.
The Hindu bodies — the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sahba; Guyana Pandits’ Council; Central Arya Samaj; Hare Krishna ISKCON Movement; Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha and the Guyana Maha Kali All Religious Organisation —yesterday referred to the claim that Persaud was possessed by a “Navrat demon”. The bodies called the allegation “ridiculous and contemptible” to Hindus, noting that they reject it.
“…The Hindu bodies like other religious groups have mutual respect towards each other and have demonstrated it on all occasions. We will continue to work for greater religious harmony amongst all Guyanese,” the groups said in a statement released yesterday.
The groups said justice should be done in the matter and any such matter, noting that religious consideration should not prejudice people’s thinking in seeking to arrive at rational conclusions.
The groups commented that Hindus believe in medical treatment and urge the community not to descend to the level of any form of superstition. “This could be harmful. Sangeeta should get justice,” the organisations said. The groups also expressed hope that the truth is revealed during the investigation.
Health Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy recently announced an investigation into Persaud’s death. Although he acknowledged that all the relevant facts are not yet known, he said he was certain that the child was in need of urgent medical care and not taking her to the hospital immediately after she took ill was a “huge mistake.” The minister would not elaborate on the nature of the probe and what it intends to unearth but he said the case is being monitored.
Chaitranie Ramotar, the girl’s grandmother, has maintained that the girl was subjected to a physical ritual, which included prodding, squeezing and palming, on March 28, hours before she died in hospital.
Pastor Ewart Cummings and Pastor Gulab have denied there was any beating during the ‘exorcism,’ which they have described as being prayers. The girl’s mother, who was also present at the ceremony, has also denied any physical treatment.
