Bargarh, June 25 (UDN): In a distressing incident highlighting the persistence of social ostracism, the body of an elderly man was allegedly transported on a bicycle in Kantapada village under Paikamal block of Bargarh district after villagers reportedly refused to assist in his last rites.

According to sources, the elderly man passed away at his residence in the village. However, family members allegedly failed to receive support from fellow villagers for conducting the funeral, as the deceased’s sons had married outside their caste.

Locals claimed that despite repeated requests, no one from the village came forward to help with the cremation or provide logistical assistance for transporting the body to the cremation ground.

Left with no alternative, the bereaved family members reportedly transported the body on a bicycle to perform the final rites.

The incident has sparked concern in the area, with many questioning the continuation of social discrimination and caste-based ostracism in rural society.

Residents and social activists have urged the administration to look into the matter and take necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future. They have also called for greater awareness and social reform to eliminate discriminatory practices.

No official statement had been issued by the local administration regarding the incident at the time of filing this report.

The incident has once again brought into focus the issue of social exclusion and the challenges faced by families subjected to community boycott in rural areas.