Chandigarh Municipal Corporation’s Major Decision:
-Administration to now cover water and electricity bills for crematoriums and cemeteries;
-Significant relief granted to the Christian community following an initiative by Councilor Anil Masih;
-Demand to waive outstanding water bill exceeding ₹6 lakh has been fulfilled.
Chandigarh (Alexander D’Souza): The Municipal Corporation has taken a historic step regarding the maintenance and public amenities of crematoriums and cemeteries belonging to all religious communities across the city. In this context, a delegation comprising representatives from Christ Church (Sector 18) and the Catholic Church (Sector 19)—led by Municipal Councilor Mr. Anil Masih-met with the Joint Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation, Mr. Himanshu Gupta.
Relief from Burdensome Bills:
The delegation submitted a formal request to the Joint Commissioner seeking the waiver of an outstanding water bill amounting to ₹6,14,874 for the Christian Cemetery located in Sector 25. Additionally, they put forward the demand that no water or electricity bills be issued for the cemetery in the future, thereby preventing any financial burden on religious and social institutions.
Resolution Already Passed in the House:
During the meeting, Councilor Anil Masih recalled that he had previously raised this issue prominently during the Municipal Corporation’s House meeting. In the meeting held in November 2023, a resolution was officially passed and recorded stating that the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation would bear the water and electricity expenses for crematoriums and cemeteries of all religious communities within Chandigarh.
Distinguished Presence of Key Members:
Several prominent figures from the Christian community played an active role in this significant meeting and initiative. The key members present at the meeting included:
Rev. Rajan Sharda (Presbyter-in-Charge), Gladwin Hardy, Isaac Nair, Samuel Shafiq, Rajiv Masih, Tony, and Councilor Anil Masih have all expressed their heartfelt gratitude to these members for their continuous support in this noble cause and for the welfare of the community.
“This is not merely a victory for the Christian community, but a triumph for every section of the city engaged in the service of their loved ones’ final resting places. This decision by the Corporation will now provide financial relief to cremation grounds and cemeteries of all faiths”: Mr. Anil Masih, Municipal Councilor.
This decision will not only benefit those associated with the churches in Sectors 18 and 19, but will also strengthen the religious and social fabric of the entire city.
News: 28-1,
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