An appeal to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami done by the widow of Dr. Simon Hercules, who died fighting against COVID-19 to transfer his mortal remains from Velangadu burial ground to Kilpauk cemetery as per his last wishes.
Dr. Simon Hercules was a neurosurgeon who was the managing director of New Hope Medical Centre in Kilpauk in Chennai, was tested positive for COVID-19, and died on Sunday. Due to the opposition from the locals, his remains could not be buried at Kilpauk cemetery; hence his body was taken to Velangadu crematorium burial ground. The ambulance carrying the body was damaged by the locals who staged a protest; also, three people accompanying the body were hurt. Under police protection, the body was buried at Velangadu crematorium at the early periods of Monday.
In a video appeal by Mrs. Anandhi Simon, the widow of the doctor to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister quoted her husband’s request that in case he doesn’t return alive, the final rites for his mortal remains to be done as per their customs.
Mrs. Anandhi Simons also thanked the Chief Minister for the help and appreciated the government for their fight against the pandemic COVID-19.
In her video, she broke down in tears are urged that the body of her husband is buried in the sealed coffin, and she wishes to transfer it from Velangadu to the cemetery of Kilpauk. She also said that the public could be assured that there is no scare of virus spread. She also humbly requested the chief minister to ensure that her husband’s last wishes are fulfilled.
While battling the novel coronavirus infection, Dr. Hercules died in a private hospital due to cardiac arrest. Several patients having flu-like situations were being treated by the doctor, but it is not clear from whom he contracted the virus. His daughter has also tested positive, who is also a doctor.
The disrespect and cruelty meted to the doctor have been condemned by the medical experts across the states.
Twenty-one people, including women who were the locals who opposed the burial at Velangadu, were booked by the Police under various charges.