NewsFlash Daily™
8 April 
Disturbing scene in Keonjhar sparks outrage after tribal man allegedly told deceased sister must appear or legal papers be produced to access Rs19,300
Keonjhar: A shocking incident from Odisha has triggered public outrage after a man reportedly carried the skeletal remains of his deceased sister to a bank, claiming officials refused to release money from her account unless the account holder appeared in person or legal heir documents were submitted.
The incident took place in Keonjhar district, where the man said he had no other option after repeated difficulties in accessing the funds.
Brother Sought Sister’s Savings
The man, identified as Jitu Munda, is a resident of Dianali village. His sister, Kakra Munda, had reportedly died two months ago.
Reports say her husband and child had died earlier, leaving Jitu as the closest surviving relative.
He allegedly approached the bank to withdraw around ₹19,300 from her account, but was informed that either the account holder must be physically present, or a valid legal heir and death-related documents must be produced
Unable to Navigate Formalities
According to reports, Jitu, who belongs to a tribal community, was unfamiliar with complex procedures such as obtaining death certificates or succession documents. Fearing he would lose access to the money needed for survival, he reportedly took an extreme step.
“The incident has sparked debate over rules versus human sensitivity.”
Remains Brought to Bank
Reports state the man went to the burial site, collected his sister’s remains, wrapped them in cloth, and carried them on his shoulder for nearly 3 kilometres to the bank. When he placed the remains outside the branch, customers and staff were reportedly stunned.
The disturbing protest quickly drew attention from villagers, many of whom criticised the handling of the case.
Police Step In
After learning of the incident, police reportedly reached the spot and calmed the man.
Authorities are said to be examining whether the matter could have been handled through local verification methods instead of forcing a vulnerable family member into repeated procedural hurdles.
Police have reportedly sought an explanation from the bank and said the matter would be handled sensitively.
