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

In a shocking incident in Phagwara, an unclaimed body was transported from the Civil Hospital for cremation in a municipal garbage-collection vehicle, triggering widespread outrage. The matter 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 driver claimed this practice had been in place for a long time and that municipal officials were aware that unclaimed bodies were routinely 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 for handling unclaimed bodies.

Phagwara Mayor Rampal Uppal expressed surprise over the incident, stating he had no prior knowledge of the practice. He assured of strict action and announced an inquiry to fix responsibility.

The incident has sparked a larger debate on the dignity of the dead and the urgent need for the municipal corporation to adopt humane, standardized procedures. Phagwara MLA Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal termed it an inhuman act by the municipal corporation and demanded a high-level inquiry into the matter.