The event encouraged participants to engage in physical fitness and social interaction
uae1 day ago
The Indian Consulate in Dubai has put in place new restrictions for the repatriation of the remains of deceased expats. One of the new rules requires that only a blood relative or a person with power of attorney can cancel the necessary documents and sign papers.
Another rule now calls for signatures from five different authorities in India, including panchayat offices, to release funds from the Indian Consulate for repatriation.
In a statement to Khaleej Times, the Press Wing of the Consulate said these decisions were taken after certain incidents.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
“The Consulate has come across several cases where agents have exploited families for repatriation of mortal remains of deceased expats,” it read. “We request diaspora to be aware of fraudulent agents who charge exorbitant amounts instead of Consulate approved rates.”
The statement also added that the Consulate is fully committed to providing access and facilitation to grieving families and “duly authorised” persons.
It also said that the “Consulate has a panel of community associations” across all emirates who render these services to families “at no service charge”. Families can contact these numbers for immediate guidance and facilitation.
Some social workers said the new rules placed an unfair burden on families. “Right now, social workers are not being allowed to assist any families in document cancellations or other issues related to death,” said Ashraf Thamarassery, who has been repatriating dead bodies for almost two decades.
“A death is always a heartbreaking experience and families or friends are often in an emotionally charged state of mind. Social workers are a huge support during the darkest days of the lives of many. Barring them from helping places an unfair burden on families.”
Ashraf, who was honoured with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman for his services in 2015 by the Indian government, called on the consulate to take alternative steps. “If there are fraudulent social workers, then cancel their services. It is not fair to bar everyone from helping out.”
However, another social worker who works with the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC), praised the move. “We have had cases where some workers would take money from the Consulate claiming the family did not have the means to repatriate the body,” he said. “Then they would approach the families asking for money to send the body home. This cannot be tolerated. People cannot be making a business out of other people’s death.”
Another social worker who did not want to be identified said that a lot of changes have been brought about by the Consulate. “Earlier, it was easier to get monetary help for those who needed it to get the bodies back home,” he said.
“The documentation was easily completed in a day. But now signatures are needed from various authorities in India including Panchayat offices. This is causing a huge backlog and dead bodies are languishing in the mortuary here. While I agree that there has to be some restrictions, it should not be causing grief to families who are unable to get the bodies of their loved ones back home.”
(With inputs from Nandini Sircar)
ALSO READ:
The event encouraged participants to engage in physical fitness and social interaction
uae1 day ago
These diverse exhibitions promise to provide meaningful insights into the country's rich cultural heritage, offering something for visitors to enjoy
uae1 day ago
The night market is located near major hotels in Deira, and visitors can also enjoy free entertainment from different Filipino singers and comedians
uae1 day ago
Both researchers underscored the importance of mentorship and representation for aspiring female scientists in the region
uae1 day ago
Stricter requirements were put in place to prevent potential misuse of visit visas and ensure that applicants can sustain themselves during their stay
uae1 day ago
The museum displays a rich and carefully selected collection of artefacts and exhibits from various Islamic eras
uae1 day ago
Breaching the platform's data confidentiality regulations will result in severe penalties, including a minimum two-year prison sentence and a fine of at least Dh50,000
uae1 day ago
The telecom major alerted its customers to stay alert and ignore suspicious links and verify offers before clicking
uae1 day ago