In Odisha’s Keonjhar district, a tribal man dug up his deceased sister’s remains and carried her skeleton to a rural bank to prove her death and claim money deposited in her account.
The incident took place on Monday afternoon at a branch of Odisha Grameen Bank in the Patna block’s Mallipasi area, leaving bank staff and customers stunned.
Brought Skeleton as ‘Proof’ of Death
The man, identified as Jitu Munda, had been visiting the bank repeatedly to withdraw around ₹19,000 deposited in his late sister’s account. His sister had died nearly two months ago.
However, bank officials asked him to submit documents such as a death certificate and proof of legal heirship before processing the withdrawal.
Unable to understand the requirement due to lack of awareness, Munda allegedly exhumed his sister’s remains, collected the bones in a sack, and brought them to the bank as evidence.
“I told them she had died, but they asked me to bring proof. So I brought her,” he reportedly told locals.
Panic at Bank, Police Called In
The sight of the skeleton caused panic among bank staff, who immediately informed the police. Soon, officers from the local police station reached the spot and intervened.
Police officials said the incident occurred due to a lack of awareness about legal procedures. “He is an illiterate man and did not understand the concept of a death certificate or nominee,” an officer explained.
After counselling, Munda agreed to take back the remains and later reburied them in the presence of authorities.
Officials Promise Help
Following the incident, local authorities assured that they would assist Munda in obtaining the necessary documents, including a death certificate and legal heir certificate, so that he can access the money legally.
Officials also acknowledged that there had been a communication gap. “Such incidents highlight the need for better awareness and support systems in rural areas,” a local administrator said.
