Bargarh Dhanu yatra’s ‘Kansa’ 'demands Rs 3000 bribe' from deceased’s family, complaint lodged

Hrusikesh Bhoi, popularly known for his iconic role of Kansa in Bargarh’s Dhanu yatra has been accused of demanding a bribe from the family of a deceased. The deceased’s son Purna Chandra Sahu has filed a complaint against Bhoi, accusing him of demanding Rs 3,000 from him after delivering his father’s body.

Sources said, Bhoi is currently employed as a government hearse driver at Bargarh District Headquarters Hospital (DHH). On Tuesday, he was called to transport the body of a deceased from Bargarh DHH to Bahala village under Gaisilet block.

After reaching the village, Bhoi allegedly demanded Rs 3000 from the deceased’s family. The next day, the family appraised the Bargarh CDMO about the incident through a written complaint. 

“My father died at Bargarh DHH. After bringing the body, the driver of the hearse van demanded Rs 3,000. He even stopped the vehicle in the middle of the road for money. As the family was in a state of grief, we gave the money without any argument. But, we have sent a letter to the CDMO, and requested to ensure other people do not face any such exploitation,” alleged Purna Chandra Sahu.

When contacted, Bargarh CDMO Nirupama Sarangi said, “We have received a complaint and issued show cause notice to Hrusikesh. The district collector is also aware of the incident. A team will be formed to investigate the matter. The hearse service is provided free of cost, especially for the poor. If the complaint is true then no excuses will be accepted and we will take strict action against him.”

In his response, Bhoi stated that he did not demand the bribe, but the family insisted on taking the money.

“One of his family members recognized me and put the money in my shirt pocket. I could not say anything at that time. I did not even count the money. The next day, I went back and returned the money,” he stated.