Khaprakhol: The intervention of social organisations helped free a mentally challenged man, who had been kept in chain for three years, at Nandupala village under Khaprakhol block in Bolangir district.
When the social organisations raised the issue with several departments, the man has been assured of medical assistance from the government, bringing relief to the poor family.
Three years ago, Kusha Pujhari (33), son of Dirju Pujari of Nandupala village, lived a happy life with his wife, son and daughter.
However, Kusha started behaving abnormally and wandered here and there following which his wife went to her parents’ house with their children.
Initially, Dirju tried some roots and herbs for the treatment of Kusha but it was ineffective. When Dirju found it difficult to control Kusha, the father had no other option than keeping his son in chain.
“Can a father keep his own son in chain,” Dirju asked, indicating his helplessness to handle such a situation. Fearing that Kusha might attack him or others, Dirju gave food to the former without going to his room. Some social activists came to know about the wretched life Kusha and came to his rescue.
They persuaded Dirju to bring his son out of confinement so that the latter can enjoy the natural air and light which might be helpful for the treatment as well. Bowing to their pressure, Dirju brought his son out, but his limbs are still tied with chain.
The social activists understood that that Dirju is not aware of the government facilities for the treatment of a mentally challenged person. Surprisingly, the administration too has no information about the status of Kusha.
Dirju is getting no help from the administration other than the provision for 25-kg rice. The sexagenarian couple is also not getting their old age pension, it was alleged. This family is still living in a dilapidated hut, indicating that they are yet to get any government scheme related to housing for the poor.
When Dirju came to know that there is a provision for treatment for his son under government schemes, the father is hopeful to cure Kusha. “If my son is cured, my family would again get back our lost happiness. My daughter-in-law, grandson and granddaughter would return home,” said Dirju.
When contacted, Khoprakhol Community Health Officer Dr Prahallad Meher said: “I have no information about Kusha. I have come to know about Kusha only from you. There are provisions from the government for the treatment of a mentally challenged person. After an enquiry, necessary steps will be taken for his treatment.”
Khaprakhol Block Development Officer Tarini Suna said that he had no information about Kusha. “The matter will be taken up with the Health Department for further treatment of Kusha. Besides, all other facilities like pension and a pucca house will be made available to this poor family,” he assured.
PNN