Caste differences force minor boy in Odisha to carry mother's body on bicycle

Jharsuguda: At a time when a lot is being done to promote equality, instances of caste-based discrimination are really disconcerting. In a glaring example, a minor boy had to carry the body of his mother on a bicycle after villagers refused to assist him in funeral in Jharsuguda. Such a shocking incident has been reported from Karpabahal village under Lakhanpur block of the district.

According to reports, 45-year-old Janaki Sinhania died after falling down while she was fetching water. After the death of her husband, Janaki was staying with her son Saroj and daughter in Karpabahal village for the last 10 years.

Though Janaki’s son Saroj had asked some of his relatives and neighbours to help him conduct the last rites of his mother, no one came forward and refused to touch the body allegedly over caste differences.

With no other option, Saroj had to carry the body of his mother on a bicycle for nearly 3 to 4 kms and conducted the burial himself.

Jharsuguda Collector Bibhuti bhusan Patnaik on the other stated that he is unaware of the incident and will initiate appropriate action after conducting an inquiry.