Judicial probe demanded into undertrial prisoner's death in Sambalpur

Sambalpur: The family members of an undertrial prisoner, who died while undergoing treatment at VSS Medical College and Hospital in Burla yesterday, have demanded a judicial inquiry into the incident.

The deceased identified as Ranjit Patnaik was arrested by Bargarh Town police on May 5 for allegedly misbehaving with a school girl.

Alleging negligence by the Bargarh jail authorities, family members of deceased Ranjit alleged that he was suffering from diabetics while no medicine was given to him. It was only after he fell sick, the jail authorities shifted him to the hospital.

“The jail authorities are responsible for the death of Ranjit. Though he asked for diabetic medicines, the jail authorities paid no heed to his requests,” said Manoj Patnaik, brother of deceased.

He further stated the family would lodge a case against the jail superintendent holding him responsible for Ranjit's death.

According to reports, Ranjit breathed his last at the Cardiology department of Burla hospital yesterday. Later, his post mortem was carried out in the presence of a Magistrate.

“After getting the post mortem reports, the exact cause of the death will be known. However, he is suspected to have died of a cardiac arrest,” Durbadala Dehuri, magistrate.

“A case has been registered Suo Motu and investigation in this connection is on. However, the family members of the deceased are yet to file a written complaint. In case they file a written complaint, appropriate action will be taken as per law,” said Bibhuti Bhoi, officer of Burla police station.

Bargarh jail superintendent Nilima Kulu on the other hand refuted the charges.

“After Ranjit Patnaik complained of chest pain on May 11, he was immediately rushed to the district headquarters hospital. Seeing no improvement in his condition, doctors then referred him to the Burla hospital where he died while undergoing treatment,” said Kulu.