A one-month-old baby boy from Phundelpada village in Odisha's Nabarangpur district was subjected to branding with a hot iron rod about 40 times in an attempt to cure his disease, officials reported on Monday. The incident took place after the family believed that the baby was affected by an evil spirit.

They thought that branding him with hot metal would remove the evil influence and cure him. The baby, who had been suffering from high fever and excessive crying, was later taken to Umerkote Sub-Divisional Hospital in the Chandahandi block for treatment. Dr. Santosh Kumar Panda, the Chief District Medical Officer, visited the hospital and confirmed that the baby's health is now stable.

He further said there are around 30 to 40 branding marks on the baby's belly and head, which were inflicted in a short period of time. The doctor expressed concern over this dangerous traditional practice and urged families to seek proper medical care instead of relying on superstitious remedies.

When the child became very sick after the branding, he was taken to Umerkote Hospital. The Chief District Medical Officer said that this practice has been happening in remote areas for a long time. He added that the health department has decided to focus on the Chandahandi block and educate people. The aim is to encourage families to take their children to hospitals for treatment instead of branding them with hot metal.

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