The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has raised concerns on the disposal of dead bodies in the context of COVID-19 in the country.
In a letter to the Secretary and Director General of Health Service of the Health Ministry, the HRCSL has made observations and recommendations in this regard.
The HRCSL said based on its observations, it is of the opinion that the mandatory requirement for cremation imposed under the health Guidelines Gazette is not a valid restriction of the freedom to manifest religion or belief.
The Commission further said it recommends that amending Gazette No.2170l8 dated 1lth April 2020 incorporating its observations and recommendations will ensure its compatibility with the Constitution and Sri Lanka’s international obligations.
The Observations and Recommendations issued by HRCSL