Assam Cabinet Approves Shraddhanjali Scheme to Bring Home Bodies of Those Who Die Outside State. Here’s How It Helps

The scheme ensures free and respectful transportation of deceased persons who are residents of Assam and die outside the state.

In moments of loss, bringing a loved one home for their final rites can be overwhelming, especially when death occurs far from home. Acknowledging this pain, the Assam Cabinet has approved the Shraddhanjali scheme to ensure that every person from Assam receives a respectful and dignified farewell, no matter where they pass away.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that in response to repeated appeals from grieving families, especially from economically weaker sections, who face challenges in bringing back the bodies of their loved ones from other states, the state cabinet approved the Shraddhanjali scheme on Sunday.

What does the Shraddhanjali Scheme Ensure?

The scheme ensures free and respectful transportation of deceased persons who are residents of Assam and die outside the state. It is applicable irrespective of the deceased’s background or cause of death, barring criminal cases.
Designed to make the process hassle-free, sensitive, and swift, the Scheme covers all Indian states, ensuring pan-India applicability.

How Will the Shraddhanjali Scheme Work?

Step-1: Reporting the Death:
A person reports the death at the nearest police station or through an upcoming official reporting system.

Step-2: Verification:

A State Nodal Officer (DIG SB or above) or District Nodal Officer (SSP) will investigate and verify the details.

Step-3: Coordination with Other States:

If verified, the State Nodal Officer will coordinate with the concerned state’s authorities for the repatriation of the body.

Step-4: Logistics and Support:

The State Nodal Officer will also oversee interstate logistics and ensure that even complex cases are handled with dignity and sensitivity.

Who Can Report the Death?

1.Next of kin
2.Relatives or friends
3.Even acquaintances
Anyone can initiate the process through a set reporting mechanism (to be launched soon).

The Shraddhanjali scheme is a first-of-its-kind initiative in Assam, reflecting the government’s keenness towards bereaved families and commitment to ensuring dignity in death.

Also Read: Assam Cabinet’s Landmark Decision:Transgenders Given Socially and Educationally Backward Class Status

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