Sambalpur/Burla: An undertrial prisoner lodged at Bargarh jail died while undergoing treatment at Veer Surendra Sai Medical College and Hospital (VIMSAR) in Burla late Sunday night.
The deceased, identified as Ranjit Patnaik, was arrested May 5 by Bargarh police for allegedly misbehaving with a minor girl.
On the other hand, the prisoner’s relatives have demanded a judicial inquiry into the incident. Alleging negligence by the Bargarh jail authorities, kin of Ranjit said he was suffering from diabetes while no medicine was administered to him. It was only after his condition worsened, he was taken to a hospital, they added.
According to sources, Patnaik had been ill for the past few days following which jail authorities admitted him to Bargarh DHH May 11. Later, May 16, he was shifted to VSSMCH as his health condition deteriorated. He was admitted to the cardiology department for treatment.
However, Patnaik succumbed while undergoing treatment last evening.
“The jail authorities are responsible for the death of Ranjit. Though he asked for diabetic medicines, the jail authorities paid no heed to his requests,” said Manoj Patnaik, brother of deceased.
He further stated that the family would lodge a case against the jail superintendent holding him responsible for Ranjit’s death.
According to reports, Ranjit breathed his last at the Cardiology department of Burla hospital Sunday. Later, his post mortem was carried out in the presence of a magistrate.
“After getting the post mortem reports, the exact cause of the death will be known. However, he is suspected to have died of a cardiac arrest,” Durbadala Dehuri, magistrate.
“A case has been registered Suo Motu and investigation in this connection is on. However, the family members of the deceased are yet to file a written complaint. In case they file a written complaint, appropriate action will be taken as per law,” said Bibhuti Bhoi, officer of Burla police station.
Bargarh jail superintendent Nilima Kulu on the other hand refuted the charges.
“After Ranjit Patnaik complained of chest pain May 11, he was immediately rushed to the district headquarters hospital. Seeing no improvement in his condition, doctors then referred him to the Burla hospital where he died while undergoing treatment,” said Kulu.