Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma in the first week of October inaugurated Shraddhanjali Scheme, a compassionate initiative aimed at ensuring that the mortal remains of State’s residents who pass away while working or studying outside the State are brought back to their homes with dignity.
The scheme will be applicable only in cases where permanent residents of Assam die in other States under special circumstances. However, it will not cover individuals who are financially well-off or capable of making independent arrangements for transportation. Similarly, patients who travel outside Assam for medical treatment are not included under this scheme.
The Assam Police, under the supervision of the Home and Political Department, will coordinate the implementation of the scheme. Detailed information about Shraddhanjali has also been made available on the Seva Setu portal.
The Special Branch of Assam Police will oversee the execution of the initiative. In case of any such incident, family members or concerned individuals may contact the Police Control Room Helpline at 112, the Special Branch Control Room at 0361-2381511 or the WhatsApp number 91810-14888 to provide relevant information.
Notably, even before the official launch of the scheme, the State Government had informally assisted in repatriating the mortal remains of over 20 individuals to Assam.
“If any person from Assam passes away in another State, the Special Branch of Assam Police will extend legal and logistical support to bring back the mortal remains with due honour. In necessary cases, responsible police officials will personally travel to the concerned State to ensure dignified transportation,” Chief Minister Dr. Sarma said during the launch of the scheme.
He further added that many parents, due to financial hardships, are often deprived of the chance to see their deceased children one last time when such incidents occur outside the State. The Shraddhanjali Scheme will also seek to provide solace and emotional comfort to such grieving families.
