Bhubaneswar (Gurpreet Singh): A day after a tribal man in Odisha’s Keonjhar district carried his deceased sister’s exhumed skeleton to a rural bank as proof of death to access her savings, the shocking episode triggered widespread outrage, with authorities promising action and the bank issuing a clarification.
The incident, captured in a viral video, unfolded at the Maliposi branch of Odisha Grameen Bank when Jeetu Munda allegedly brought his sister’s remains after repeated attempts to withdraw money from her account failed.
According to Jeetu Munda, he had visited the bank several times seeking access to Rs 19,300 deposited in his late sister Kalra Munda’s account, but claimed officials kept insisting on formalities he did not understand.
Frustrated, the tribal man reportedly exhumed his sister’s remains and carried the skeleton to the bank, shocking staff and prompting police intervention. The remains were later reburied.
The episode drew sharp political reactions, with Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari criticising what he called a lack of humanitarian sensitivity and warning of action against those found responsible.
Opposition parties also targeted the state government, calling the incident a symbol of institutional insensitivity and demanding simpler procedures for poor and marginalised people accessing inherited savings.
Responding to the uproar, Indian Overseas Bank, sponsor of Odisha Grameen Bank, said no official had asked for the physical presence of the deceased and maintained that branch staff had only sought legally required documents, including a death certificate, for settlement of the account.
The bank said the matter appeared to have stemmed from misunderstanding and lack of awareness, adding that the claim would be settled on priority once the necessary documents are issued.
Police officials said Jeetu Munda was unaware of procedures involving legal heir claims and had not applied for a death certificate or sought help from revenue authorities.
Following criticism, the Keonjhar district administration stepped in and provided Rs 30,000 in immediate assistance from the District Red Cross Fund. Officials also coordinated with the bank to release Rs 19,402, including interest, to the claimant.
Authorities said a detailed inquiry has been launched into the episode, while efforts are underway to process the death certificate and examine lapses, if any, in handling the matter.
The incident has reignited debate over accessibility in rural banking systems and the treatment of vulnerable citizens navigating official procedures.
