PIL on repatriation of bodies of Indians who died of non-corona reasons abroad

A PIL has been filed in the Supreme Court to bring back mortal remains of the Indian citizens who have died abroad due to reasons other than coronavirus.

New Delhi: A PIL has been by filed by Pravasi Legal cell seeking instructions from the Supreme court to the Indian embassies/High Commissions abroad to bring back the bodies of the Indian citizens who have died abroad due to reasons other than corona, without seeking individual approval from Home Ministry.

Citing grounds for not obtaining Home Ministry's approval, the petitioner contends that repatriation of dead bodies has been difficult as the "Indian embassies which earlier were issuing clearance certificates are now insisting on production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs".

The petitioner further contends that denying to bring back the mortal remains is the denial of the fundamental rights of the citizens and shows that government is being ignorant of the fact that it is the common desire of NRIs to be buried/cremated with dignity in their own soil in the presence of their families and friends.

He also referred to apex court's judgement where the court has said that "right to decent burial is a facet of Right to life."