By Gama Hassan Oscas
In a society that prides itself on its values of compassion, empathy, and respect for the deceased, it is disheartening to witness a cultural phenomenon that tarnishes these ideals.
I am referring to the disturbing trend of uncles of deceased individuals who, driven by a misguided sense of entitlement, insist on delaying or denying burials until their personal demands are met. This behavior not only reflects a deep-rooted lack of empathy and understanding but also reveals a distressing disregard for the dignity of the departed and the grieving process of their loved ones.
It is appalling that some uncles would exploit the tragic loss of a family member to settle personal scores or unresolved issues. Instead of coming together in times of grief to provide solace and support, these uncles perpetuate a cycle of greed and callousness that further exacerbates the pain experienced by the bereaved. Their actions not only defy the basic principles of human decency but also defy cultural and religious norms that prioritize swift and respectful burials.
One of the most egregious examples of this disturbing behavior is witnessed when a wife passes away. Instead of honoring her memory and facilitating a proper farewell, uncles shamelessly demand the settlement of all her dowry before her burial. This practice is not only morally reprehensible but also deeply discriminatory. It reduces a woman’s worth to a monetary transaction and displays a complete lack of regard for the emotional toll that the loss of a loved one has on the surviving family members.
The uncles’ demands for settling dues or unresolved family issues before allowing a burial to take place reflect a troubling mindset. It suggests that they prioritize material possessions and personal grievances over the grieving process and the emotional well-being of the bereaved family. Such actions not only demonstrate a lack of empathy but also underscore a fundamental misunderstanding of the purpose and significance of burial rituals.
The consequences of these delays and denials are far-reaching. The prolonged agony experienced by the grieving family members not only hinders their ability to find closure but also adds an unnecessary burden to their emotional distress. It is a tragedy when the memory of a departed loved one becomes tainted by the shameful actions of individuals who seek to exploit their vulnerability for personal gain.
It is high time for society to condemn and challenge these cultural practices. Religious and community leaders must step forward to promote a more compassionate and empathetic approach towards the deceased and their families. It is essential to foster a culture that values the dignity of the departed and recognizes the importance of supporting grieving families during their most vulnerable moments.
In conclusion, the culture of uncles delaying and denying burials for personal gain is a shameful practice that deserves widespread criticism and condemnation. It is imperative that we challenge these harmful traditions and work towards creating a more compassionate and empathetic society—one that prioritizes the emotional well-being of the bereaved and upholds the dignity of the departed. Only through collective efforts can we ensure that the grieving process is respected, and that the memory of our loved ones remains untainted by greed and self-interest.
The author of this article is an advocate and can be reached on Email: oscarsgama@gmail.com