Mumbai: The BMC has informed the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) that a budget of Rs45,08,367 has been allocated for the repair of mortuaries and postmortem centres in Borivali and Juhu.
The move comes after the rights body took a suo motu cognisance of a media report, which highlighted the pathetic condition of the mortuary at Bhagwati Hospital in Borivali. The home department submitted a government resolution (GR) confirming that funds have been allocated for the purchase and installation of new refrigerators and freezing boxes, ensuring that bodies are preserved in proper conditions.
In its order, the SHRC stated, “We have reviewed the affidavit and annexures related to the release of funds. A part amount of Rs4.63 lakh has already been released for repairs of the postmortem unit at Bhagwati Hospital.”
The media report regarding the deplorable condition of the mortuary at Bhagwati Hospital was published in January 2024. The SHRC had expressed disappointment over the BMC’s efforts in addressing hygiene and sanitation issues at such facilities.
Observation Made By The Commission
“It goes without saying that even a dead person is entitled to a dignified burial or cremation. This fundamental concept seems to have been ignored by the hospital management, its supervisory authority and the BMC,” the commission had said.
After the issuance of the GR pledging repair funds, the SHRC noted that the issues raised in the report had been rectified by the relevant departments. “With such concrete steps being taken, no further intervention by us is warranted.” The suo motu cognisance was disposed of accordingly.
