Odisha BDO, Sarpanch Conduct Last Rites Of Covid Victim

During these times of Covid-19 pandemic, more often than not, a tragedy doesn’t end with death. Stigma & uncompassionate behaviour continue to scar our society. A similar case emerged in Bhadrak district where a Block Development Officer (BDO), local Sarpanch and some health workers had to conduct the last rites of a Covid-19 victim.

This incident occurred in Badatirana village under Dhamnagar block of Bhadrak district. A well-known artist of his village, Basudev Mishra had tested positive for Covid-19 and was under home isolation. However, he succumbed to the deadly virus. His family members also developed Covid-19 symptoms. Basudev’s son also tested positive for Covid-19 and after undergoing treatment Bhadrak Covid Care hospital, has now returned home.

Basudev Mishra passed away in such difficult circumstances. Despite the tragedy that his family underwent, his neighbours refused to help his family. Even the body of the victim remained unattended before his house for several hours. After getting information about the incident the Dhamanagar BDO rushed to the spot.

The BDO, the Sarpanch along with some health workers reached the spot to conduct the last rites of the victim. They wore PPE kits and carried the victim’s body on their shoulders to conduct his last rites. This kind gesture of the BDO, Sarpanch and the health workers is truly a flash of hope in these dark times.

Published: Diptiranjita Patra

Last updated: 18 June 2021, 10:58 AM IST