Dubai: The Indian Consulate in Dubai has imposed new restrictions on the repatriation of dead bodies of expatriates. The consulate informed that only those who are related by blood or a person authorized by relatives can cancel the necessary documents and sign the documents.
Another law requires signatures from authorities at five different institutions in India, including panchayat offices, to release funds from the Indian consulate for repatriation of dead bodies.
Consulate officials say there have been several cases of agents extorting expatriate families to repatriate their bodies. The consulate also urged expatriates to beware of fraud by agents who charge exorbitant amounts instead of consulate-approved rates. Officials also said that the consulate is fully committed to providing access and comfort to bereaved families and legally authorized persons who are facing the hardship of bereavement.
The consulate added that the consulate has a panel of social associations across the emirates who provide these services to families at no service charge and families can contact these numbers for emergency guidance and facilitation.
