Assam Launches ‘Shradhanjali’ Scheme for Dignified Repatriation of Bodies of Residents Who Die Outside State

The BJP-led government in Assam today launched a scheme to ensure a dignified return of the mortal remains of anyone die outside the state. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the initiative named "Shradhanjali" (meaning tribute in Assamese) is meant for students and workers from humble backgrounds who travel outside Assam for higher studies or employment.

Sarma said 24 bodies of Assamese youth have been brought back to the state unofficially this year alone. He, however, clarified that the scheme will not apply to “financially well-off” families. "The scheme also does not cover individuals who travel outside Assam for medical treatment. If someone can afford medical treatment outside the state, they can afford to bring back the body,” he said.

The Special Branch of the Assam police will be the nodal agency for implementing the Shradhanjali scheme. A designated police officer will travel to the concerned state and bring back the body with due respect. We all know that bring back the body costs at least Rs 40,000–50,000. Through this scheme, we hope to ease the burden on grieving parents,” Sarma said.

It may be mentioned here that nine migrant workers from Assam died in an accident at a construction site at the Ennore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) thermal power station near Chennai. Their bodies were flown back to Assam on October 2 via a special flight arranged by the Tamil Nadu government, the chief minister informed.

The Assam Government has announced an ex-gratia amount of Rs 5 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased worker. Additionally, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin sanctioned a solatium of Rs 10 lakh per family and directed officials to ensure the dignified repatriation of the victims.