Home min shocked over opposition to cremation

SHILLONG: Home Minister Lahkmen Rymbui expressed shock over people opposing the cremation of Dr John Sailo Ryntathiang, Meghalaya’s first COVID -19 victim.
He said, “Whatever happened on Wednesday shocked me and I cannot believe this. But the silver lining is that after 4-5 hours, the society showed its true colours of compassion and care and a certain village and religious denomination came out and not only offered support but necessary help to finish the last rite”.
He said that in case of bodies, necessary procedure is being followed as per WHO and government of India guidelines.
“All scientific researches confirm there is no harm in burial or cremation of bodies”, he said.
Condoling the demise of Dr Sailo, he expressed his gratitude to the Presbyterian Church and hoped that all will follow their examples.
Health and Family Welfare Minister AL Hek also thanked the Riatsamthiah Presbyterian church for showing great example by allowing the burial of Dr Sailo.
Hek also thanked the pastor of the church, Rangbah Shnong, government officials, doctors, deputy commissioner, SP and magistrates.
Hek also continued his attack on group of people who objected to the burial saying they have violated the law of humanity and mankind.
The home minister urged the people of the state not to be stumbling blocks but to help and support the frontline workers.
“Friends, remember that the virus is already here in Shillong. The professionals, health workers, 108, Corona Care volunteers and all medical professionals, police and other staff are the one to fight and protect us. They are trained to fight. As a society, it is our moral duty and moral responsibility to support all frontline workers in lending our helping hand, encourage and facilitate to make their work as much as possible easier, we should not in any way be a stumbling block, physically, mentally or psychologically”, he said. Rymbui said that the society should not stigmatise the frontline workers or their family in any form and appealed to the citizens to encourage the persons who are battling with the Covid-19.
NEHU condoles death
North-Eastern Hill University fraternity has expressed grief and also extended its heartfelt sympathy to the family of late doctor.