A Muslim woman panchayat member in Kerala performed the last rites of a Hindu man after his relatives could not reach the cremation ground in time. The incident occurred in Chigrupadavu, Manjeswaram, Kasaragod district.
Details of the incident
The deceased, Narayanan (64), a resident of Chigrupadavu, died at Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital on Thursday after being treated for advanced-stage cancer for nearly a month. His body was brought to his home, but his relatives, who live in other parts of the state, were unable to arrive on time for the funeral.
Local panchayat member Ayesha, a Muslim woman, stepped forward to perform the last rites. She told reporters, "I have known Narayanan for years. When I saw his body lying unattended, I felt it was my duty to ensure he gets a dignified farewell. Religion does not matter in such situations."
Community response
Ayesha's act was widely appreciated by the local community. Villagers gathered to support her, and the cremation was completed with full rituals. The incident highlights the secular fabric of the region, where communal harmony prevails despite religious differences.
Background
Narayanan had been living alone after his wife's death. He had two children who were working in other districts and could not reach in time. The panchayat president said, "We are proud of Ayesha's gesture. It shows that humanity comes first."
