Unclaimed body transported in garbage vehicle: Human Rights Commission issues notice to SSP, Municipal Commissioner

The Punjab State Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu notice of a shocking incident in which an unclaimed body was transported from the Civil Hospital in Phagwara to the cremation ground in a municipal garbage collection vehicle. The Commission has sought a detailed report from the Kapurthala Senior Superintendent of Police and the Phagwara Municipal Corporation Commissioner.

A Bench comprising Chairperson Justice Sant Prakash and Member Gurbir Singh noted that media reports and a viral video brought the matter to their attention. The footage showed a municipal vehicle — used for collecting garbage — being used to carry the body to the cremation ground. In the video, the driver reportedly stated that this had been a routine practice.

Taking serious view of the incident, the Commission directed both the SSP and the Municipal Commissioner to submit their reports at least one week prior to the next hearing, scheduled for January 27, 2026. The Commission observed that transporting a human body in such a manner constituted a grave violation of human dignity and had deeply disturbed the public. Local residents expressed shock and indignation, questioning how municipal authorities could allow it.

Responding to media queries, Municipal Commissioner Dr Akshita Gupta stated that the matter had already been brought to the department’s notice and that action was being taken against those responsible for the negligence. She assured that all accountable officials would face appropriate disciplinary measures.