Tragic Incident in Odisha: Man Brings Sister's Remains to Bank for Withdrawal
In a deeply troubling incident from Odisha, a man named Jitu Munda exhumed his sister's remains to withdraw her bank funds after being denied access due to paperwork issues. This shocking act, captured in a viral video, has sparked outrage and prompted immediate government action. The Chief Minister has ordered an investigation into the bank's procedures, while the bank has clarified that they only requested necessary documentation. Following intervention, Jitu received financial assistance and the remains were respectfully reburied. This incident highlights the urgent need for sensitivity in handling such cases.
Apr 29, 2026, 12:50 IST
Overview of the Incident
A video from Keonjhar district in Odisha has gone viral, showing a tribal man, Jitu Munda, carrying the skeletal remains of his deceased sister to a local bank. This shocking footage raised serious questions about the bank's procedures.
Details of the Case
Jitu Munda, aged 50, resides in Keonjhar. His sister, Kakra Munda, passed away two months ago, leaving him as the only family member. He visited the Malipasi branch of the Odisha Gramya Bank to withdraw her funds. However, the bank requested a death certificate and legal heir documents. Due to his lack of education, Jitu was unable to comprehend the legal requirements and left empty-handed.
Feeling helpless due to his inability to navigate the paperwork, he took an extreme step. He exhumed his sister's remains, wrapped them in cloth, and walked to the bank in the scorching heat. Witnesses were left in shock upon seeing this.
Government Response
Upon the video's circulation and the growing public outcry, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi took immediate notice. On Tuesday evening, he ordered a high-level investigation into the incident, directing the revenue commissioner of the northern division to ensure such an event does not recur.
Bank's Statement
Following the video's release, the bank issued a statement refuting claims that they demanded the deceased woman's physical presence for the withdrawal. They clarified that only the death certificate and legal documents were requested. The bank further stated that once the necessary documents were provided by government officials, they promptly settled an amount of ₹19,402 to the three legal heirs.
The Indian Overseas Bank, which sponsors this rural bank, reiterated that the bank acted in accordance with regulations.
Resolution of the Matter
After the Chief Minister's intervention, a resolution was reached. Jitu Munda received ₹30,000 in financial assistance from the district Red Cross fund. Additionally, he was provided with his sister's death certificate and heirship certificate. With police assistance, the remains were respectfully returned to the cemetery for reburial. The Chief Minister's office expressed deep sorrow over the incident and advised officials to be more sensitive towards the public.