An unusual incident in Odisha has drawn widespread attention after a man exhumed his late sister’s remains in an attempt to prove her death and access funds in her bank account.
The man, identified as Jitu Munda from Dianali village, reportedly visited a branch of Odisha Grameen Bank in the Malipasi area of Keonjhar district to withdraw about Rs 20,000 belonging to his deceased sister, Kalara Munda, who passed away earlier in the year.
Bank officials, however, requested proper documentation before processing the withdrawal. Frustrated by repeated unsuccessful visits and a lack of understanding of the required procedures, Munda took an extreme step by digging up his sister’s remains and presenting them at the bank as proof of her death.
The act shocked both staff and customers, prompting authorities to intervene. Officers from the Patana police division arrived at the scene after being alerted to the situation.
A police official explained that the incident highlighted a communication gap, noting that Munda, who has no formal education, did not understand legal requirements such as identifying a nominee or obtaining proof of heirship.
Following the intervention, bank officials assured that the necessary steps would be taken to help him access the funds through the proper legal process.
Reports indicated that the situation was further complicated because the nominee linked to the account had also died, leaving Munda as the only surviving claimant.
Authorities later ensured that the remains were respectfully returned and reburied, while efforts were initiated to assist the man in obtaining the required legal documents to complete the transaction.
