By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 22: The High Court of Meghalaya has directed the state to submit a report on the facilities of cremation and burial available in Shillong and other major cities of Tura, Jowai, Nongstoin and Nongpoh.
A PIL was instituted after the Seng Khasi Hima Mawsynram, Mawsynram Syiemship, addressed a letter to Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee.
The court, in an order, observed it is necessary to ensure that there are adequate facilities available not only in Shillong but elsewhere in the major towns in the state to afford a dignified process of cremation or burial. In particular, such facilities should be available for all the major communities in the state including the tribes, so that the last rites can be performed and traditional customs adhered to with a degree of dignity and in a quiet atmosphere.
“The state will report on the facilities available in Shillong and the other major cities of Tura, Jowai, Nongstoin and Nongpoh,” the court said.
The state was also directed to make every endeavour to augment the existing facilities, including setting up of electric crematoria, if necessary, while also being reminded to take care that environmental concerns are also addressed.