Odisha CM Initiates Inquiry After Unusual Claim for Bank Deposit by Adivasi Man

In a shocking incident that highlights the challenges faced by marginalized communities, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has ordered an inquiry following a report of an Adivasi man exhuming his sister’s skeletal remains to claim a bank deposit. The event took place in Keonjhar district, where Jeetu Munda sought to withdraw funds from his deceased sister’s account, asserting that she had passed away two months prior.

This unusual act was undertaken as Munda attempted to provide proof of his sister’s death in order to access her savings. In response, the Chief Minister’s office has tasked the revenue divisional commissioner of the state’s northern division with investigating the specifics surrounding this incident. The inquiry aims not only to understand the circumstances that led to such a drastic measure but also to develop strategies to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Expressing regret over the circumstances that forced Munda into such a situation, Chief Minister Majhi emphasized the need for government officials to adopt a more sensitive approach towards the needs of the people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He called for a systemic review to ensure that processes are in place to assist individuals in proving identity and accessing their rightful assets without resorting to such extreme actions.

Following this troubling incident, Munda was granted financial assistance amounting to Rs 30,000 from the District Red Cross Fund, alongside essential documents such as a death certificate for his sister and an inheritance certificate. Reports indicate that he has already received the funds from his sister’s bank account, which raises questions about the accessibility of financial resources for grieving families.

In a related development, the Indian Overseas Bank issued a statement confirming that the Odisha Grameen Bank, which it sponsors, had successfully settled a claim amounting to Rs 19,402 to the legal heirs of the deceased. This transaction was carried out in accordance with established banking norms, highlighting the need for banks to be more responsive and accommodating in situations involving bereaved families.

Source: scroll.in