The mortal remains of a youth from Nayagarh, Subhakant Pradhan, who died in Saudi Arabia two months ago, reached Odisha on Tuesday, thanks to the intervention of BJP National Vice President Baijayant Jay Panda.
Subhakant, son of Prahallad Pradhan of Lathipada Nuasahi in Nayagarh district, had gone to Saudi Arabia in search of work in September last year. While working there, he fell ill due to the harassment meted out to him by his co-workers.
“He wanted to return home but was not allowed to leave the company. Unable to cope with the mounting tension and ill health, he committed suicide on January 12,” said deceased’s cousin Pradipta Nayak.
To get his body back, Subhakant’s family members ran from pillar to post. They approached many officials, from the district labour officer (DLO) to various people’s representatives, but to no avail.
Meanwhile, the family members observed the death rituals. Even after that, they kept meeting officials, hoping to get some help to bring the body back.
Finally, they saw a ray of hope when they contacted BJP National Vice President Baijayant Jay Panda. Extending his full support to the bereaved family, Panda contacted the Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, seeking best possible help on their part.
Panda’s initiative paid off when finally Subhakant’s body was flown from Saudi Arabia back to India. It reached Kolkata airport on Monday and subsequently handed over to the family members.
The family members brought the body to the village on Tuesday morning where people turned up in large numbers get the last glimpse of their lad.
“Had it not for Baijayant Jay Panda’s intervention and help, it would not have been possible for us to see Subhakant’s face for one last time,” said Prahallad Pradhan, Subhakant’s father.
The mortal remains of Subhakant were consigned to flame at the village cremation ground later in the day.