Thread by @alizmoulana

While in the process of helping clear a Muslim body today, I learnt from a senior health official that a circular has been issued by MOH to restrict PCR testing on a dead body ONLY if the Rapid Antigen Test conducted prior was NEGATIVE. (1)

This particular deceased had tested positive via antigen and as such the MOH regulations mandate that PCR testing is not necessary and the body can be disposed by cremation without further inquiry. (2)

The family of the deceased is distraught, as the deceased was ailing for some time, and was not exposed, nor have any outside contact for over 14 days. The health authorities are sympathetic but they are bound by these harsh regulations. (3)

It is an established fact that rapid antigen tests are less accurate than PCRs, and the possibility of false negatives/positives are much higher than PCRs. (4)

Given the controversy surrounding racist forced cremations in Sri Lanka, majority of Muslim deceased are deemed positive ONLY via antigen testing, REFUSED PCR testing & sent directly for cremation, like the case of 20-day old Baby Shaykh & the 2 month old infant yesterday.(5)

The Government is now fully aware of the furor within the Muslim community against its draconian stance. (6)

If in fact they were bound by the recommendation of “experts”, surely by now they could afford some humanity or relief by at the very least offering to change its circular to include PCR testing on the family’s request, for positive results of a rapid antigen test? (7)

If they truly want to diffuse tension, this is the very least they can do!

Or is this just another heinous stab at oppressing and discriminating against an aggrieved minority when they are at their lowest? (8)

#StopForcedCremations