The commission, in its order, said it was giving the government servants the last opportunity “failing which appropriate warrant will be issued to secure their presence.” In May last year Dr Anthony Rodrigues had filed a complaint with GHRC with regards to non availability of burial and cremation grounds in different talukas of the State and the resultant violation of rights of the dead person to have a decent burial or cremation.
The commission had in July 2014, issued notices to director of municipal administration and director of panchayat to furnish particulars about the facilities available for burial or cremation in the different panchayats and municipalities. Dr Rodrigues’s advocate, Satish Sonak had in February this year filed a report relating to the Goa Public Crematoria and Burial Places Bill 2009 in response to which GHRC chairperson Justice P K Mishra and member J A Keny directed the director of panchayat and the State of Goa through the chief secretary to file their replies and furnish status reports.
Following repeated absence at the commission, Justice Mishra stated in the order that it was unfortunate that despite summons issued to the officials, they had chosen not to appear. The case has been adjourned to October 7.
