Tributes flowed following the passing of Mangal Munda, a great-grandson of Birsa Munda, India’s revered tribal icon, at his native village in Khunti, Jharkhand, on Friday.
Mangal Munda succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment at the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi. He had sustained severe head injuries in a road accident on November 25 when the tractor he was travelling in overturned in Khunti.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow in Olchiki (Santhali) script on X, calling Munda’s demise a profound loss for his family and the tribal community of Jharkhand.
“May God grant his family strength in this hour of grief,” Modi added, concluding with “Om Shanti.”
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren paid homage by visiting RIMS and laying a wreath on Munda’s mortal remains. Soren extended his condolences to the family, assuring them of all possible government support. He prayed for the departed soul’s peace and the family’s strength during this difficult time.
State BJP President Babulal Marandi criticised the delay in Munda’s treatment, alleging systemic failure.
He claimed Munda was denied timely care, including a bed at the trauma centre, causing a ten-hour delay in treatment. He also highlighted that the family had to purchase medicines worth ₹15,000.
“This is not just a death but a murder by the system,” Marandi remarked, blaming the government’s apathy.
Mangal Munda was the eldest son of Sukhram Munda, Birsa Munda’s great-grandson, who resides in Ulihatu village, Khunti.
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