Mentally ill man in shackles in Malkangiri

Malkangiri: The life of 35-year-old Rajib Khil of Dabuguda village under Khairput block of Malkangiri district is confined to a wooden pole. With only two pieces of cloth and an old mat to sleep, he is tied to the pole with an iron chain.

Rajib is well built but he is suffering from mental illness since last two years. After losing his mental balance he became violent and locals started feeling he is a threat for people and property of the village. Finding no other option, his family members tied him to the pole.

"Whenever he sees any material on his way, he runs away after picking it up and throws it somewhere. Where is the money for his treatment! His family can't even afford the travelling expense," said a villager Budu Khil.

"He is stealing vehicles, mobile and even livestock of people. He was tied fearing that he may attack others," said another villager Samarath Madhi.

Rajib was the sole bread winner for his family that consists of his wife, daughter, grandmother and sister. But he has turned a burden for them now. The family is living in extreme poverty and has to go without food sometimes. Bearing the treatment of Rajib is not possible for them under such conditions.

Meanwhile, local administration has assured of bearing his treatment cost.

"We will send him to the district headquarters hospital after discussing with the local Medical Officer and arrange for his treatment. First we will send a staff member to take stock of his condition," said Khairput BDO Dambarudhar Mallick.

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