Sri Lanka will mark March 31 as a solemn day of remembrance for the 278 persons including children who were forcibly cremated during the Covid-19 pandemic, despite their families’ objections and religious beliefs. The policy, which disproportionately affected the Muslim community, sparked widespread national and international condemnation.
The first forced cremation took place on March 31, 2020, in Negombo, setting a distressing precedent that continued for months. Among the victims was a 29-day-old infant. The policy not only denied families their right to perform last rites according to their faith but also instilled fear, preventing some from seeking medical care.
The then Sri Lankan Government’s decision to mandate cremations for all Covid-19 victims was heavily criticised as a violation of human rights and religious freedoms. The World Health Organization (WHO) and scientific studies found no medical justification for banning burials, as there was no evidence to suggest that interment posed any risk of spreading the virus. However, the authorities continued enforcing the policy until it was reversed in 2021.
According to the Chairperson of the Commemoration Committee, As-Sheikh M.H.M. Burhan Bahji for Muslims, cremation is strictly forbidden, as burial is a fundamental religious practice. “Denying these final rites inflicted deep spiritual and emotional pain on grieving families. Religious scholars and human rights advocates said that the forced cremations represented a gross violation of fundamental freedoms and human dignity,” he said.
As Sri Lanka reflects on this painful chapter, community leaders are calling for March 31 to be observed as a day of prayer, remembrance, and solidarity. The commemoration aims to honour the victims, support affected families, and advocate for accountability.
“As a nation, we must acknowledge this injustice and ensure such violations never happen again,” As-Sheikh Bahji said. “We invite people of all faiths and backgrounds to stand in solidarity with the families,” he added.
A multi-ethnic and interfaith commemoration event will take place on April 6 at 10.00 am at the Marine Grand Hall, Colombo 6. Religious leaders, activists, and affected families will gather to honour the memory of those who were forcibly cremated and reaffirm Sri Lanka’s commitment to religious tolerance and human dignity.
Pic by David Blacker
