A tribal villager in India carried his sister's exhumed remains to a bank branch to prove her death after being denied access to her savings account. Jitu Munda, 52, exhumed his sister Kalara Munda's body and brought it to the Odisha Grameen Bank branch in Keonjhar district on April 27, sparking outrage and national attention.
Munda had been trying for weeks to withdraw INR 19,300 (£151) from his sister's account, which she deposited before her death in January. Bank staff reportedly demanded a death certificate, which Munda struggled to obtain. In frustration, he exhumed her remains and carried them to the bank, placing them outside the branch. The incident was captured on video and widely shared, prompting police intervention and an investigation.
Bank's Response: The bank denied asking for the remains, stating that Munda failed to provide legally required documents. It claimed the incident stemmed from a lack of awareness of banking procedures. The bank has since agreed to release the funds once the death certificate is submitted.
Government Reaction: Odisha's Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari announced an investigation into the bank manager's conduct. The district administration expressed concern, emphasizing the need to protect people's rights and dignity.
Background: Munda, a poor tribal villager, said he did not understand the banking rules or legal process. His sister, a daily wage laborer, had returned to her maternal home after the deaths of her husband and son. She deposited her savings before falling ill and passing away.
Documentation Gaps: The incident highlights persistent issues with birth and death registration in rural India, particularly among marginalized communities. While registration is mandatory, many families lack formal certificates, complicating access to services and benefits.