The rules show no respect for the human rights of the religious minorities, including Muslims in the country, the council said in a written statement released on Friday.
The rules run counter not only to the Islamic faith, but also to international human rights laws, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 18, and the United Nations International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights, Article 18 (1), which state that everyone has the right to freedom of religion and to practice religious teachings, the MUI noted.
Even though every country, including Sri Lanka, has the right to make rules, including guidance on the management of bodies of COVID-19 victims, the rules must respect the right of religious groups, including Muslim groups in the country, the council said.
The MUI pointed out that the Indonesian government has issued its guidance on the management of the bodies of COVID-19 victims in accordance with the religion that the victims adhered to. The MUI has also issued a special fatwa concerning the management of the bodies of COVID-19 victims.
The council urged the Sri Lankan government to cancel the cremation rule and replace it with one that respects the rights of minority groups, including Muslims.
In addition, it appealed to the Sri Lankan government to consult religious minorities, including Muslims in the country, on the issue.
The MUI further asked the Indonesian government to convey its protest, which represents the interests of all Muslims in Indonesia, through the Foreign Ministry, to the Sri Lankan government. (INE)
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EDITED BY INE
Translator: Suharto
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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