Row over performing Aruna Shanbaug's last rites

MUMBAI: A row has broken out over the cremation of KEM Hospital former nurse Aruna Shanbaug, who passed away on Monday after lying in vegetative state for 42 years. Shanbaug’s nephew and niece arrived from Virar and said they would want to perform the last rites.

Mangala and Vaikunth Nyak reached the hospital after the news of her death spread. Nurses, however, said they would not allow anyone else perform the cremation after taking care of her for 42 hours.

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Sister-in-charge Kalpana Gajula said the relatives never came all these years. “She is like a family member. We have taken care all these years. None can take that away from us,” she said.

Matron Arundhati Vellhar said they have started collecting money for her last rites. Matron herself has contributed Rs 10,000 for the rites. She said all these years they have attended to her, bought her new clothes and took care of all her needs.

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A police officer from Bhoiwada said they are looking into the matter and recording statements. Her body will be kept at KEM hospital until the rites are performed at 3pm.

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Row over performing Aruna Shanbaug's last rites