In a shocking absence of humanity, a dead body laid for hours as the villagers refused to carry it to the crematorium because the deceased’s family was ostracised from the community.
The incidence occurred at Ganua village under Koida block in Sundergarh district on Thursday. The villagers were mere spectators, standing beside the body unmoved by the cries of the deceased Fagu Penthei’s wife and youngest eight-year-old son.
And more shockingly, instead of carrying the body on their shoulders for last rites, the villagers demanded that the wife of the deceased pay Rs 10,000 to revoke their restriction imposed on the family. According to reports, Fagu Penthei along with his family was ostracised after he failed to pay Rs 30,000 as fine for a mistake committed by his son Ajay (16), who had touched a dead body belonging to his Kumbhar community of the village last year. After the financial condition of his family deteriorated, his two sons went to Chennai in search of work.
The ailing Fagu died of asthma. His wife and youngest son requested the villagers for assistance to carry the body for last rites. However, they were asked to pay money.
However lastly, a compassionate youth from other community came forward and carried the body in a vehicle to the crematorium. He along with the deceased’s wife and son buried the body.
Sundargarh Collector Vineet Bharadwaj on Friday directed the Koira Tehsildar and the Koira police station IIC to inquire into the incidence and submit their reports. “I have also ordered to give this family assistance from the Red Cross,” he added.