President Ranil Wickremesinghe has announced the introduction of new legislation aimed at ensuring individuals can choose between burial or cremation according to their personal wishes. This significant development comes in response to the hardships faced by the Muslim community during the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly related to the government’s previously imposed mandatory cremation policy.
During the “Puluwan Sri Lanka” victory rally held in Kattankudy, President Wickremesinghe addressed the gathering, expressing his deep regret over the pain and suffering endured by Muslim families. He acknowledged the distress caused by the denial of their right to bury their deceased according to their religious beliefs, a situation that sparked widespread outrage within the community and beyond.
Acknowledging Past Mistakes
The President made it clear that the mandatory cremation policy, which was enforced at the height of the pandemic, was a measure that inadvertently targeted the Muslim community. He stated that the government’s decision, driven by concerns over public health and safety, failed to consider the cultural and religious sensitivities of a significant portion of the population.
“We cannot undo the past, but we can and must learn from it,” said President Wickremesinghe. “I am deeply sorry for the pain this policy has caused to our Muslim brothers and sisters. It was never our intention to cause harm, and I assure you that steps are being taken to prevent such oversights in the future.”
The President emphasized that the new legislation would be designed to respect and uphold the religious rights of all communities, ensuring that no group is unfairly targeted or marginalized. This move is seen as a critical step towards reconciliation and healing in a country that has experienced deep divisions along religious and ethnic lines.
Investigating Accountability
In addition to announcing the forthcoming legislation, President Wickremesinghe revealed plans to establish a special committee tasked with investigating the circumstances that led to the implementation of the mandatory cremation policy. This committee will be responsible for identifying those who were responsible for the decision and ensuring that they are held accountable for their actions.
“The committee’s findings will be crucial in determining how and why this policy was put in place without considering the cultural and religious implications,” the President stated. “We owe it to the affected families to provide answers and, where appropriate, compensation for the losses they have suffered.”
President Wickremesinghe’s announcement has been met with cautious optimism by the Muslim community and human rights advocates, who have long called for accountability and justice. The President’s commitment to addressing this issue reflects a broader effort to rebuild trust and unity among Sri Lanka’s diverse population.
Moving Forward
As the government works to draft and implement the new legislation, there is hope that this move will mark a turning point in Sri Lanka’s approach to handling sensitive cultural and religious issues. By allowing individuals to choose their preferred method of honoring their deceased, the legislation aims to promote respect for diversity and protect the rights of all citizens.
The President’s message to the nation was clear: the government recognizes the mistakes of the past and is committed to building a more inclusive and compassionate society. As Sri Lanka continues to navigate the challenges of the post-pandemic era, the introduction of this legislation could serve as a beacon of hope and a symbol of the country’s dedication to upholding the dignity and rights of all its people.