Performing last rites for COVID victims

Many state that Sri Lanka’s success in dealing with the pandemic ranks as the 10th best in the world (Picture AFP)

The Sri Lanka Council of Religions for Peace (SLCRP), which is a multi-religious organization representing Buddhist, Christian, Hindu and Muslim leaders in Sri Lanka, wishes to express its profound gratitude and appreciation to the President, his Government and the health authorities for their determined efforts to contain the COVID-19 virus that has plagued our beloved motherland since February 2020. In fact, our country’s success in these efforts ranks as the 10th best globally.

"We earnestly appeal to all those empowered to take measures to arrest the spread of the virus, treat those who are infected and solve the issue regarding the burial of the dead; especially the performing of the last rites during burial"

However, many people appear to be in panic and are being demoralised due to a certain  lack in recognising the humanitarian aspects and sensibilities which touch our cultural and religious values such as a more humane manner of treating those who have contracted the disease. The same can be said about the issue regarding the performing of last rites that had been denied to the loved ones of the deceased. This issue is regarding burial of those who have succumbed to the virus. This issue has come into focus particularly with concerns expressed by some citizens of the country.

We earnestly appeal to all those empowered to take measures to arrest the spread of the virus, treat those who are infected and solve the issue regarding the burial of the dead; especially the performing of the last rites during burial. These events should be held in keeping with the guidances offered by WHO. Performing of last rites is done in accordance with the cultural values and religious beliefs of our 
own brothers.

"However, many people appear to be in panic and are being demoralised due to a certain  lack in recognising the humanitarian aspects and sensibilities which touch our cultural and religious values such as a more humane manner of treating those who have contracted the disease."

While appreciating the commitment of the Government towards the eradication efforts of this virus, we express our gratitude to all health workers for their dedication in serving the sick and pray that we may soon be blessed to see our motherland freeing itself from the pandemic and the country restoring the healthy environment it once enjoyed. 
(THE SRI LANKA COUNCIL OF RELIGIONS FOR PEACE)