The direction of the bench comprising justices Dipak Misra and Shiva Kirti Singh came after the Centre submitted that appropriate guidelines have been framed for the disposal of unclaimed bodies.
"Framing of just guidelines does not mean that proper disposal of bodies. The guidelines need to be implemented in such a way that the dignity of the dead should be maintained," the bench said.
Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand submitted that Ministry of Home Affairs has framed detailed and comprehensive guidelines regarding disposal of unclaimed dead bodies and their DNA profiling.
The bench was hearing a PIL filed by Vikas Chandra Guddu Baba who alleged unclaimed bodies were dumped into rivers by the authorities.
He pleaded with the court to frame guidelines for disposing the unclaimed bodies.
Earlier, the apex court had directed the Centre that unclaimed bodies found in public places be disposed of in a decent manner.
The Railways had earlier virtually refused to act on the issue of disposal of bodies found in its jurisdiction saying it is government responsibility.
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