Dignity After Death: Hearse Mandate for All Districts

State health authorities have been directed to ensure that each district has at least one functional hearse vehicle, readily available at hospital premises for immediate use. This decision stems from a suo motu case initiated by the commission after a news report detailed a distressing incident. In January 2026, a woman's family in Faridabad had to use a motorized cart to transport her body home due to financial difficulties.

The commission, citing Article 21 of the Constitution, affirmed that the right to life includes the right to dignity even after death. It observed that such incidents reveal systemic deficiencies affecting economically weaker sections. Consequently, the state government is now tasked with formulating a comprehensive policy for free transportation of deceased persons for impoverished families, similar to free ambulance services for pregnant women.

During a recent hearing on April 4, 2026, it was reported that a hearse vehicle is available at Faridabad civil hospital but awareness issues prevented the family from accessing it. The commission stressed the need to sensitize hospital staff, especially towards vulnerable individuals, and ensure hearse service contact details are prominently displayed in all government health institutions. Police security outside mortuaries was also deemed necessary.

Civil surgeons across the state are required to submit reports by August 6, 2026, confirming hearse service availability and operational status within their districts. The next hearing is scheduled for August 13, 2026.