Bengaluru Family Exploited for Bribes After Daughter’s Death
A shocking case of corruption has emerged in Bengaluru, where the grieving family of a deceased 34-year-old woman was allegedly forced to pay bribes at every step of her final rites. The victim’s father, a retired Chief Financial Officer (CFO), recounted the horrific ordeal, exposing systemic corruption in emergency and civic services.
The Tragic Death & Immediate Demands
The woman, whose identity is protected, died suddenly from cardiac arrest at her Bengaluru home. Instead of receiving support, her family faced relentless demands for bribes from officials handling her death formalities.
Her father stated, “From the ambulance to the cremation, everyone wanted money. We were exploited in our weakest moment.”
Ambulance Staff: “Pay ₹5,000 or We Won’t Move the Body”
The nightmare began when the family called for an ambulance. Instead of prioritizing the emergency, private ambulance staff allegedly demanded ₹5,000 upfront before transporting the body. “They didn’t care that my daughter had just died,” the father said.
Police Delay Clearance for ₹2,000 “Fee”
Under Karnataka law, police must approve the movement of a body in case of unnatural death. Officers reportedly withheld clearance until the family paid ₹2,000 as a “processing fee.”
Mortuary & Crematorium Staff Demand More Money
At the mortuary, workers allegedly asked for ₹3,000 to expedite the autopsy. Later, crematorium staff insisted on ₹10,000 to avoid delays. “They knew we had no choice,” the father lamented.
Public Outrage & Police Response
The incident sparked fury on social media, with many sharing similar experiences. Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda has ordered an inquiry, vowing “strict action” if allegations are proven.
Why Corruption in Death Services Persists
This case reflects a widespread issue across India, where grieving families often face extortion:
– No transparency in service fees
– Weak enforcement of anti-bribery laws
– Lack of whistleblower protection
How to Stop This Exploitation?
- Mandate fixed pricing for ambulances, mortuaries, and cremations.
- Punish corrupt officials with immediate suspensions.
- Create helplines for families to report bribery.
- Launch public awareness on legal rights during emergencies.
Conclusion: A Morally Bankrupt System?
The ex-CFO’s ordeal highlights how corruption preys on vulnerability. While investigations may follow, systemic reform is the only real solution. Bengaluru—and India—must confront this shameful reality.
(Updates to follow.)
