Humanity shamed in Phagwara: Unclaimed body taken for cremation in garbage vehicle

Human dignity was dealt a shocking blow in Phagwara when an unclaimed body was transported from the Civil Hospital to the cremation ground in a municipal garbage-collection vehicle, triggering widespread outrage.

The incident came to light after a video shot by mediapersons went viral on social media, showing the body being carried in the same vehicle used for routine waste collection.

When questioned, the vehicle driver claimed that this practice had been in place for a long time and that municipal officials were fully aware that unclaimed bodies were being taken for last rites in garbage trucks.

As the disturbing visuals circulated online, several social welfare organisations condemned the act, calling it a disgrace to humanity and a stark reminder of administrative insensitivity. They demanded immediate accountability and a complete overhaul of the system responsible for handling unclaimed bodies.

Meanwhile, Phagwara Mayor Rampal Uppal, when contacted, said he had no prior knowledge of the practice and assured that strict action would be taken.

He said an inquiry would be initiated to fix responsibility.

Phagwara MLA Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal also described it as an “inhuman act” by the Municipal Corporation and demanded a high-level inquiry into the matter.