Change in law for repatriating bodies of expats, blessing or challenge?

DUBAI: The Indian Consulate in Dubai has imposed new restrictions on the repatriation of the bodies of expatriates. From now on, only a blood relative of the deceased or a person with a power of attorney will be able to sign and cancel the documents related to this.

In addition, signatures must be collected from five authorities in India, including the Panchayat Office, to receive funds from the Indian Consulate for the repatriation of the bodies. The Consulate stated that the new decision was made after it was noticed that agents were exploiting the families of deceased expatriates in relation to the repatriation of the bodies. The Consulate warned that many agents are charging more than the rate approved by the Consulate and that the expatriate community should be vigilant about this matter.

The Consulate will provide all assistance in repatriating the bodies of expatriates. The Consulate has a panel of community associations in all emirates to provide such services to the families without charging a single penny. The Consulate informed that they can be contacted for services and guidance.

Meanwhile, some social activists in the UAE have accused the new laws of placing an additional burden on the families of deceased expatriates. They also point out that social workers will no longer be able to help the families of deceased expatriates by canceling documents.