The incident occurred at a branch of Odisha Grameen Bank in the Patana block, drawing attention to procedural challenges in accessing funds from a deceased person’s account.

Repeated requests lead to extreme step

The man, identified as Jeetu Munda, had been attempting to withdraw Rs 20,000 from the account of his elder sister, Kalra Munda, who died on January 26, 2026.
According to reports, he visited the bank multiple times but was allegedly told to bring the account holder to complete the withdrawal process. 
 
Despite informing staff about his sister’s death, he claimed his requests were not addressed.
 
Frustrated by the situation, he exhumed his sister’s remains and brought the skeleton to the bank as proof.

Police intervention

Officials from the local police station arrived at the bank after receiving information about the incident. 
 
Police stated that the man was unaware of the legal procedures required to access funds as a legal heir.
Authorities indicated that the bank had not adequately explained the process to him, contributing to the misunderstanding.

Administration assures support

Following the incident, local authorities assured assistance to facilitate the withdrawal. 
 
The remains were later reburied under police supervision.
 
State minister Suresh Pujari said that the administration had taken note of the matter and that appropriate action would be considered regarding the conduct of the bank staff.
 
Officials also directed the bank to ensure that the claimant receives the funds after completing the necessary formalities.
 
Absence of nominee complicates process
 
The account reportedly did not have a surviving nominee, as the designated nominee had also passed away. 
This made Jeetu Munda the sole claimant to the funds.

In such cases, banks require verification of legal heirship and supporting documents before releasing the amount.

Banking rules for deceased accounts

Under Indian banking procedures, if a nominee is registered, funds can be released upon submission of a claim form, death certificate and identity proof.
 
However, when both the account holder and nominee are deceased, the claim passes to legal heirs. 
 
Banks then process withdrawals after verifying documents establishing identity and relationship.
 
Once documentation is complete, banks are expected to settle such claims in accordance with regulatory guidelines.