GUWAHATI: In a shocking incident from Odisha's Keonjhar district, a 50-year-old man allegedly exhumed his deceased sister's remains and brought them to a bank after repeated attempts to access her savings were denied.
WATCH | "I Carry an Onion, Don't Use AC," Union Minister's Heatwave Comment Sparks Online Debate
The incident occurred on April 27 at a branch of Odisha Grameen Bank in Patana block. The man, identified as Jeetu Munda from Dianali village, had been trying to withdraw around ₹20,000 from his late sister Kalra Munda's account. She had passed away on January 26.
According to Jeetu, he visited the bank multiple times and informed officials about his sister's death. However, he claimed that he was repeatedly told the account holder must be present in person to process the withdrawal.
Unable to navigate the formal procedures and unaware of the legal requirements for accessing a deceased person's account, Jeetu took the extreme step of digging up her remains to prove she had died.
Police later intervened at the bank. Officials stated that Jeetu, who is illiterate, was not familiar with the nominee or legal heir process. Authorities also noted that the bank staff failed to clearly explain the required procedure to him.
The remains were subsequently reburied in the presence of police, who have assured assistance in helping Jeetu access the funds through proper legal channels. Local authorities have said the matter will be reviewed to ensure the rightful claimant receives the money.