The Supreme Court recently voiced concern over a case involving a man from Chhattisgarh who had to ask the highest court for permission to bury his father in their village graveyard. The court’s reaction highlights the ongoing challenges religious minorities face when trying to access burial grounds in certain areas. This particular case involved a tribal Christian man who sought to bury his father, a Christian pastor, who died on January 7th after an extended illness.
The man’s difficulty in burying his father, despite their long-time residence in the village, brought attention to a broader issue of religious minorities and their rights. The court, expressing its dismay, noted, “We’re pained to see this.” This situation emphasizes a lack of proper systems or respect for burial rights for those from minority religious groups. Moreover, the petitioner’s tribal background adds another layer of complexity, showing how different forms of discrimination often intersect.
The judges expressed disappointment that the matter even reached the Supreme Court, stating, “This is not a matter which should have come to this court.” This reaction indicates the court’s dissatisfaction with how the lower courts and state officials handled the situation initially. The Supreme Court has scheduled another hearing for Wednesday, which shows their intention to quickly find a solution to the issue. This case now serves as a reminder that a fairer and more compassionate system is needed for all citizens, particularly minority communities, to have their burial rights respected.