A shocking incident unfolded in Rayagada district when villagers denied cremation rights to a tribal elder who had converted to Christianity, forcing his family to bury the body on government land.
The deceased, Jakaka Dam, 65, from Gazigaon village under Rayagada block, had embraced Christianity about five years ago. He had been ill for several months and died on July 2, 2026, at around 7 a.m.
Following Christian customs, his family planned to bury him in the local cremation ground. Villagers strongly opposed the move, claiming the ground was reserved for traditional tribal cremations and not burials.
As a result, the body remained unburied for 24 hours. During this period, villagers refrained from cooking, as local tradition dictates that no household fire burns until funeral rites are completed.
Finally, on July 3, the family buried the body on government land outside the village. Reports suggest that four to five tribal families in Gazigaon have converted to Christianity.
Dam is survived by three sons and other relatives. No formal complaint was lodged with the police or administration until Friday morning.
