TV
The story of Kusha Bariha from Guderpali village in Bargarh district’s Gaisilet block is a tale of survival where life itself has turned into a battle. The poverty-ridden family of three, Bariha, his younger sister and grandmother, has now sought the Odisha government's help for survival.
Kusha Bariha’s family floats in a sea of misery. With no means to earn, sometimes they sleep on an empty stomach while on other days, they curse their fate.
Bariha’s ordeal began years ago. His mother passed away first, leaving the family struggling to make ends meet. One sister, with help from villagers, somehow managed to get married. Later, a terrible accident hit Bariha again. While helping his father cook rice over a wood stove, Bariha slipped and fell into boiling hot porridge. The burns scarred his face, chest, and ear. Though he was rushed to Burla hospital in Sambalpur, he required advanced treatment. But with no money, his father couldn’t afford it.
Dreams Shattered, But Hope Fights On
As if poverty wasn’t enough, tragedy struck again when Bariha’s father died, leaving him the responsibility of his younger sister and elderly grandmother. Years later, Bariha still bears the scars, not just physical, but emotional too. Now, his aged grandmother looks after him, wiping her tears as she wonders how much more they can endure.
The family’s misery didn’t end there. Bariha had dreams to educate his younger sister so that she could do something big in life. Despite his own struggles, he never hesitated to beg for her education. But today, he himself is unable to walk properly because of his injuries. His sister Arjita, though longing to continue her studies, now shoulders the family’s burdens.
The local assistance, a small pension, and a few kilograms of rice barely help them. For this family of three, it’s like a drop in the ocean.
A Plea for Help
Bariha's grandmother urged the government to help the family. "I am unable to bear the pain of the children. I urge the government to help treat my grandson."
"I am unable to go for higher studies due to our extreme poverty. If the government extends help, I can pursue higher education and also get my brother treated," said Arjita Bariha.
Bariha’s condition is deteriorating. He has made an emotional appeal for advanced medical treatment, seeking relief from years of pain. His sister too hopes for government support, not just for her brother’s treatment but also for her education.
Local villagers and the Sarpanch have appealed to the Odisha government and the district administration to address the plight of Kusha Bariha’s family.
Guderpali Sarpanch, Ram Chandra Patra said, "We have been helping the family of Kusha Bariha. They are in extreme poverty. We urge the government to help the family with the treatment of Bariha."
