A 32-year-old teacher at a government school in Sundargarh district, Odisha, died from suspected heatstroke on Saturday after falling ill during census duty last week amid an intense heatwave, his family claimed on Sunday.
Incident Details
Anurag Ekka, an assistant teacher at Jarada High School in Bonai subdivision's Gurundia block, was engaged in door-to-door census work in Jarada village when he collapsed on April 17. He was taken to a local hospital and reportedly discharged on April 19, after which he resumed his duties at the school. On Friday, Ekka fell ill again and was admitted to Government Medical College and Hospital, Sundargarh, in critical condition. He was declared dead around 8 pm on Saturday.
Family's Statement
Sanjay Lakra, Ekka's brother-in-law, stated that Ekka collapsed while carrying out census duty a week ago due to heatstroke and never fully recovered.
Administrative Response
Bhagwan Bankira, block education officer of Lahunipada with additional charge of Gurundia, said the administration will investigate the circumstances leading to Ekka's death.
Funeral and Survivors
Ekka was buried on Sunday. He is survived by his wife and an 11-year-old daughter.
