Has NHRC Addressed the Crisis of Unclaimed Bodies in Raipur Mortuary?
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Synopsis
The NHRC's recent intervention highlights the urgent need to address the troubling issue of unclaimed bodies in Raipur's mortuary. As human rights come into question, the dignity of the deceased must be preserved.
Key Takeaways
- NHRC intervenes in a critical human rights issue.
- Unclaimed bodies are accumulating in Raipur's mortuary.
- An NGO has been facilitating funerals for unclaimed individuals.
- The dignity of the deceased must be respected according to religious beliefs.
- The Chhattisgarh administration has yet to take action on allocated land for last rites.
New Delhi, Sep 19 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report highlighting the alarming situation of unclaimed deceased individuals accumulating within the mortuary of the Raipur District Hospital in Chhattisgarh, due to a lack of space for conducting their last rites.
The report indicates that an NGO has been facilitating the funerals, while three unidentified bodies have reportedly not been sent for post-mortem examinations since the previous week.
In response to this report, the apex human rights body has remarked that if the information is accurate, it raises significant concerns regarding potential human rights violations, as the deceased deserve to be treated with dignity and in accordance with their respective religions.
The NHRC has formally issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of Chhattisgarh, demanding a comprehensive report on this issue within two weeks.
Previously, in 2021, the Commission had released an advisory underscoring the necessity to uphold the dignity and rights of the deceased. It emphasized that the right to life, fair treatment, and dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution of India extends not only to living beings but also to their remains.
As per the press report, approximately three years ago, the district administration allocated three acres of land designated for the last rites of unclaimed bodies, where the NGO has conducted rites for over 800 unclaimed individuals.
It has been reported that the land could be reused after soil refilling; however, no actions have been initiated by the administration thus far.
Founded under the Protection of Human Rights Act of 1993, the NHRC serves as an autonomous statutory body, reflecting India's commitment to the promotion and safeguarding of human rights.
Its principal mission is to protect and promote human rights, defined as the rights associated with life, liberty, equality, and the dignity of individuals guaranteed by the Constitution or enshrined in international covenants, and enforceable by courts in India.
The apex human rights body holds the authority to take suo motu (on its own initiative) action based on media reports, public information, or other sources, without a formal complaint of human rights violations.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the NHRC's proactive stance in addressing the plight of unclaimed bodies. This issue underscores the need for systemic change to ensure that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, is treated with the dignity they deserve. The responsibility lies with both the authorities and society to uphold these fundamental human rights.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions has the NHRC taken regarding unclaimed bodies?
The NHRC has issued a notice to the Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary, requesting a detailed report on the situation of unclaimed bodies in the Raipur mortuary.
Why is the treatment of unclaimed bodies a human rights issue?
The treatment of unclaimed bodies is a human rights issue because it relates to the dignity and respect that every individual deserves, even in death, as highlighted under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
What has the Chhattisgarh administration done about unclaimed bodies?
The district administration allocated land for the last rites of unclaimed bodies, but there has been no recent action taken to address the growing number of unclaimed deceased individuals.
How can the public assist with the issue of unclaimed bodies?
The public can assist by raising awareness, supporting NGOs that conduct funerals for unclaimed bodies, and advocating for better policies to address this issue.
What are the implications of this situation for human rights in India?
The situation raises serious concerns regarding human rights violations and the need for proper protocols to ensure that the dignity of the deceased is maintained.
