Northeast Desk, 10th May: On May 9, the High Court of Meghalaya acknowledged the challenges faced by rural residents in conducting cremations for the deceased. It was brought to the court’s attention that a shortage of cremation facilities in these areas forces villagers to transport bodies over 20 kilometres for cremation, a burdensome task.
During the hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL), Additional Advocate General K Khan informed the court about the possibility of identifying suitable areas for establishing cremation facilities in rural regions.
The issue was raised by Dr N Mozika, Amicus Curiae, and Advocate LMD Marak, representing the petitioner, Re-Seng Khasi Hima Crematorium.
The Amicus Curiae was advised to provide details of areas requiring crematoriums, enabling the state to earmark suitable locations for this purpose.
Mozika expressed readiness to identify areas genuinely in need of cremation facilities, while Khan emphasized the importance of providing deceased individuals with a dignified farewell through proper cremation. He assured the court that the state would provide all necessary facilities, provided the identified areas are feasible for cremation.
The court has scheduled further hearing on the matter for June 10, 2024.
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