Congress Delegation Meets Silchar Municipal Commissioner Over Crematorium Charges and Civic Issues

Way2barak, August 2 : A delegation from the Congress party met with Silchar Municipal Corporation Commissioner Srishti Singh on Friday to address pressing civic concerns in the town, including alleged overcharging at the Silchar crematorium and the absence of an elected municipal board.

Due to the lack of a functional municipal board, residents of Silchar have reportedly been facing numerous issues in accessing basic civic services. The crematorium in Silchar handles an average of 30 to 35 cremations daily. In the past, economically disadvantaged families could present a letter from the Municipal Commissioner to the crematorium staff and receive exemptions on charges such as firewood. However, Congress leaders allege that poor families are now being charged between ₹4,000 and ₹5,000, making it difficult for them to afford last rites.

Former District Congress President Abhijit Paul, speaking to the media, stated that several families have been forced to borrow money at high interest rates to cover cremation expenses. He urged the Commissioner to ensure the installation of a display board listing the official charges at the crematorium. He also requested the installation of CCTV cameras, along with concessions for poor families.

In addition, the Congress delegation raised concerns about the Bishorjon Ghat, demanding the installation of barricades and proper lighting for safety and convenience.

In response, Commissioner Srishti Singh assured that starting August 1, any individual with an Arunodoi or ration card would be provided with free firewood for cremation. She further promised to consult the crematorium committee and arrange for the installation of a display board with itemized rates.

The Congress delegation included District Congress General Secretary Sajal Banik, Acting President Simanta Bhattacharjee, Suryakanta Sarkar, Org Saha, Iftikar Alam Laskar, Anupam Roy, and Kushal Dutta, among other party leaders.