The Indian Consulate in Dubai has implemented new restrictions for the repatriation of the remains of deceased expatriates. One of the new regulations mandates that only a blood relative or an individual with power of attorney can cancel the required documents and sign the necessary papers. Another regulation now requires 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 explained that these decisions were made following certain incidents. 'The Consulate has encountered several cases where agents have exploited families for the repatriation of mortal remains of deceased expats,' the statement read. 'We urge the diaspora to be vigilant of fraudulent agents who charge excessive amounts instead of the Consulate-approved rates.'
The statement also emphasized that the Consulate is fully dedicated to providing access and facilitation to grieving families and 'duly authorized' persons. It further noted that the 'Consulate has a panel of community associations' across all emirates who provide these services to families 'at no service charge.' Families can contact these numbers for immediate guidance and assistance.
Mixed reactions have emerged from social workers regarding the new rules. Some social workers argue that the new regulations impose an unfair burden on families. 'Currently, social workers are not permitted to assist families in document cancellations or other matters related to death,' said Ashraf Thamarassery, who has been repatriating bodies for nearly two decades. 'A death is always a heartbreaking experience, and families or friends are often in an emotionally charged state. Social workers provide significant support during the darkest times of many lives. Barring them from helping places an unfair burden on families.'
Ashraf, who was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman for his services in 2015 by the Indian government, urged the consulate to consider alternative measures. 'If there are fraudulent social workers, then cancel their services. It is not fair to bar everyone from helping out.'
However, another social worker from the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) praised the move. 'We have had cases where some individuals 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 wished to remain anonymous, noted that the Consulate has introduced many changes. 'Previously, it was easier to obtain monetary assistance 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 significant backlog, and bodies are languishing in the mortuary here. While I agree that there have to be some restrictions, it should not be causing additional grief to families who are unable to get the bodies of their loved ones back home.'
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