Baripada: What began as a moment of joy while fishing turned into a fatal tragedy in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, where a young man died after a live climbing perch fish, locally known as ‘Kau’, got lodged in his windpipe.
The deceased has been identified as Abinash Bijuli of Dighi village under Bangiriposi police limits.
According to sources, the incident occurred while Abinash was catching fish in a pond. In a risky act, he attempted to kill the live fish with his mouth. However, the fish slipped inside and got stuck in his airway, leaving him gasping for breath.
He was immediately rushed to the Bangiriposi Community Health Centre in critical condition.
Family members have alleged gross medical negligence against the attending doctor at the facility. The deceased’s grandfather and former Sarpanch, Bankim Chandra Bijuli, claimed that despite repeated pleas, the doctor did not attend to the patient in time.
The family further alleged that the doctor behaved rudely and even made casteist remarks. Instead of providing immediate treatment, the patient was referred to Baripada, leading to a critical delay, they claimed.
Abinash later died, with the family holding the alleged delay in treatment responsible for his death.
Police have seized the body and sent it for post-mortem examination. An investigation has been initiated into the circumstances surrounding the death, including the allegations of negligence.
Meanwhile, tension is brewing in the locality, with residents warning of protests if strict action is not taken against the doctor.
