Body Of Rajasthan Native In London Morgue For 35 Days, Family's Wait Gets Longer Back Home
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The deceased, Fakira Bhagaria got British citizenship 10 days before his death but lacked an OCI card, which is reportedly causing legal issues in repatriating his body to India
A man originally from Sagwada in Rajasthan's Dungarpur district, who had been living in London for several years, passed away 35 days ago. His body, however, still remains in the UK. The family, eager to perform his last rites in India, has reportedly sought help from various authorities, including the Ministry of External Affairs and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
The deceased, Fakira Bhagaria, had been devoted to his work at a Hindu temple on Alperton's Ealing Road in Wembley, London, for the past 25 years and frequently visited India. His health had recently deteriorated, and he passed away on April 21. According to reports, his body has been kept at the Brent, Harrow and Barnet Public Mortuary in Watford, Harrow, London since then.
The family, longing for his last rites in India, has reportedly faced countless obstacles. Efforts by the temple chairman, Narendra Thakkar, to facilitate the return of the body have been unsuccessful. Reports indicate that although reassurances have been received from the Ministry of External Affairs and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, no concrete action has been taken.
Adding to the complications, Fakira Bhagaria had reportedly acquired British citizenship just 10 days before his death but had not secured an OCR card. It has been claimed that under British law, the absence of this card is preventing the transportation of his body, presenting a legal hurdle.
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