The Odisha government’s ‘Mahaprayan' scheme allegedly failed to come to the rescue of a family in Bolangir, who were subsequently forced to carry the dead body of their loved one on a motorcycle. The incident has been reported from Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital in Bolangir.
As per initial reports, one Ashok Tandi of Kutenpali was admitted to the hospital after he complained of fever on September 19. However, he died while undergoing treatment at the hospital. Later, his family members contacted the officials of the hospital for a hearse vehicle under the Mahaprayan scheme to carry Ashok’s body back to the village.
It is alleged that despite repeated assurances, the Mahaprayan vehicle failed to reach the hospital. With no other option, the family decided to carry the body on a motorcycle.
“When we came to get the Mahaparayan vehicle, the authorities said that it was on its way. After waiting for long hours, the officials informed me that the vehicle would take more time. As a result, we decided to take the body on a bike,” said a relative.
The brother of the deceased said, “The officials told us that the vehicle would reach soon. But it did not turn up after waiting for hours.”
Meanwhile, the hospital authorities could not be contacted over the allegations.