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NEW DELHI, INDIA, October 14, 2004: After the government decided to allow crematoriums to become privatized, many of the previous problems disappeared. S.K. Sethi, secretary of Arya Samaj Lodhi Road Society, which took over Nigambodh Ghat a year ago, explains, “Earlier, there were frequent fights over the quality of wood sold for use in pyres. Relatives performing last rites were expected to sort out the logs and also wheel the carts. The MCD staff used to ask for anything between US$1.00 to $2.00 to help the families with such chores. The pundits too demanded donations over their regular fees.” Diwan Chand, also of the society, adds, “When we took over, the place was pretty bad. Stray cattle and smack addicts had taken over the prayer halls and there was no proper lighting or seating arrangements. There was filth all around and the place wore an eerie look. There were frequent thefts – shoes disappeared while people were praying.” Vikas Handa, who is in charge at Nigambodh Ghat, says, “On completion of registration formalities, our staff is there to assist people at every step. Except for the MCD official who issues death certificates, the entire staff has changed.” Rakesh Mehta, MCD commissioner, sums it up, “The feedback forms received from privatized grounds indicates that people are largely satisfied with services.”

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