Hearse service at hospitals: Haryana Human Rights Commission seeks reports from Civil Surgeons
Panel had taken suo motu notice of a news reprt titled Woman dies in hospital, cash-strapped kin take body home on cart"
The Haryana Human Rights Commission has issued comprehensive directions to the state’s health and administrative machinery to ensure the protection of dignity of the deceased and the rights of their families.
The matter was registered as a suo motu case by the full commission, comprising chairperson Justice Lalit Batra and members Kuldip Jain and Deep Bhatia, based on a news report published on January 30, 2026, titled “Woman dies in hospital, cash-strapped kin take body home on cart".
The report highlighted that a 35-year-old woman, Anuradha, died during treatment at Badshah Khan Civil Hospital, Faridabad, and due to financial constraints, her family had to transport her body home on a motorised cart. This incident not only shook public conscience but also raised serious questions about the state’s responsibilities.
In its order dated February 2, 2026, the commission observed that the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution extends beyond mere existence and includes the right to dignity even after death. The commission noted that the incident reflects a broader systemic deficiency, where economically weaker sections are unable to access essential services even after death.
The commission directed the state government to formulate a comprehensive policy for free transportation of deceased persons for poor families, on the lines of free ambulance services provided to pregnant women.
During the hearing held on April 4, 2026, the Full Commission reviewed reports received from various authorities. It was informed that a free hearse vehicle is available at Civil Hospital, Faridabad, through the Red Cross Society; however, due to lack of awareness and procedural knowledge, the family could not avail the service.
The Full Commission, headed by Justice Lalit Batra, expressed serious concern over the matter and issued the following important directions:
- Hospital staff must be sensitised, particularly towards poor and illiterate individuals, and extend full assistance in availing hearse services.
- Contact details of hearse services must be prominently displayed in all government health institutions for easy public access.
- At least one functional hearse vehicle must be ensured in every district and stationed within hospital premises for immediate use in emergencies.
As per the report received, 12 out of 14 deep freezers at Civil Hospital, Faridabad, are functional, while two are under repair. A proposal to establish a modern cold room for preservation of bodies is also under consideration.
The commission also emphasised the need for police security outside mortuaries to prevent any illegal activities, tampering of evidence, or other untoward incidents. The Health Department and Police Department have been directed to coordinate and make necessary arrangements in this regard.
The Haryana Human Rights Commission has sought detailed reports from all Civil Surgeons across the state, specifying whether hearse services are available in their respective districts and whether such services are operational within hospital premises.
The commission’s order clearly underscores that in a welfare state, it is unacceptable for the dignity of a citizen after death to depend upon their economic condition. Upholding the dignity of the deceased is both a constitutional and moral obligation of the state.
