NHRC Takes Action on Unclaimed Bodies Crisis in Raipur

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India is investigating alarming reports of numerous unclaimed bodies accumulating in the mortuary of the District Hospital in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The bodies remain unclaimed due to a lack of designated space for their last rites, currently performed by an NGO, according to an official press release.

Three unidentified bodies have reportedly not undergone post-mortem examinations since last week. The NHRC expressed concerns that these reports, if accurate, signify grave human rights violations, emphasizing that last rites should be conducted with dignity as per religious customs. Consequently, the NHRC has issued a notice to Chhattisgarh's Chief Secretary, demanding a detailed report on the situation within two weeks.

In 2021, the Commission had previously advised on maintaining the dignity of the deceased, extending the right to life and dignity to include the deceased under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. Despite the allocation of land for last rites three years ago, over 800 bodies remain unclaimed and neglected, with the district administration yet to take action on reusing the said land.

(With inputs from agencies.)