When this MLA stood against social stigma

REZA PRADHAN, DARJEELING SNS, 25 MAY 21 : Darjeeling MLA Neeraj Zimba on Monday set an example against social stigma by taking part in the cremation of a Covid patient at the Darjeeling crematorium.

Mr Zimba had been visiting the crematorium at Mukti Dham to enquire in the matter where ambulance drivers who reportedly manhandled and threatened while cremating a person who had died after contracting Covid-19 recently.

"I met Amir Gurung and his team (ambulance drivers) at the Darjeeling cremation ground and was concerned about the misbehavior of a Covid victim's family against them over some minor disagreement," said Mr Zimba.

These ambulance drivers, who are mainly ferrying Covid patients to and from hospitals, are also voluntary cremating the bodies of those who die due to the virus in absence of persons or families to conduct the funeral.

"I understand the pain the family members go through and their loss in times like these, when one is not even allowed to touch the body. However, I request people to also acknowledge and understand the tremendous pressure and risk these workers are going through to ensure that all traditions are followed during cremation. In some parts of the country, this is also not being done properly," Mr Zimba said, adding that the cremation of the body is an integral part of our "circle of life."

Mr Gurung and his team were manhandled on Sunday by family members of a Covid patient who had died, while they also allegedly broke their sanitizer machine after levelling different allegations against them.

"My visiting the crematorium and joining them in performing the last rites today was also a part of me showing solidarity with them. I have also spoken to the Superintendent of Police, CM0H, and the Municipality to ensure the welfare and security of the workers at the crematorium," the MLA said, adding that he will also write to the state government for regularization of their jobs as a gesture for their contribution to society at such critical times.

The Darjeeling MLA had recently shown gratitude to Mr Gurung, along with his team Mahesh Sarki and Samant Rai, for his dedication had had personally committed to transfer his first three months' salary to their personal accounts.