Jitu Munda (52) from Odisha told The Guardian he grew frustrated after the bank manager repeatedly asked for a death certificate that had not yet been issued. He brought the skeleton to demonstrate her death. The Indian Overseas Bank disputed Munda’s account, stating it followed standard procedures because other heirs had also come forward.
The bank said its intention was to protect the interest of the poor tribal woman's monies in the account. This week, the death certificate was issued and the money was given to the relatives. Munda’s sister Kalara had deposited 19,300 rupees (£150) from selling livestock.
It remains unclear why the death certificate was delayed for several months. A minister from the Odisha state government said the case is under investigation.