US envoy expresses displeasure over impasse on burial of COVID dead

Alaina B. Teplitz

US Ambassador Alaina B. Teplitz yesterday expressed her displeasure over the impasse over on the burial of COVID dead in Sri Lanka.

“Disappointed to see that the Government and PM are backing away from ending discriminatory cremation policy. People including loves recently passed, deserve more respect for their rights from a democratic government,” Teplitz said in a tweet. 

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa last week told in Parliament that burial will be allowed but the next day State Minister for Primary Healthcare, Epidemics, and COVID Disease Control Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle, told Parliament the burial of the remains of COVID victims in Sri Lanka will be allowed only if the expert committee appointed by the Health Ministry approves it.

Cabinet co-spokesman Minister Udaya Gammanpila also maintained that a final decision on the matter will be taken by the Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena.

He also said there was no change in the existing laws pertaining to COVID-19, and all those who succumbed to the disease will be cremated.