Public crematorium at Sirajuli inaugurated after reconstruction, handed over to community

A CORRESPONDENT

DHEKIAJULI: In a significant community milestone, the Shesh Thikana (Final Address) public crematorium on the banks of the Sirajuli river in Sonitpur district was formally handed over to the public on Sunday after extensive reconstruction.

For decades, the cremation ground has served Hindu families from Narayanpur, Tulip, Mizibari, Sirajuli Colony, Gorabasti, Moila Ali, and surrounding areas. However, the absence of proper facilities meant mourners often had to endure scorching heat, rain, and other hardships during last rites.

Recognizing the need for a dignified cremation site, Shesh Thikana, a local voluntary organization, spearheaded the reconstruction effort starting in March 2024. The project was made possible through public contributions and a government grant facilitated by the then-District Commissioner Dev Kumar Mishra and Chief Executive Officer Karabi Karan Saikia.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by CEO Karabi Karan Saikia and Dhekiajuli Co-District Commissioner Dyotiva Bora, both of whom praised Shesh Thikana for its humanitarian service. Saikia recalled that former DC Mishra had pledged immediate assistance upon merely hearing the name ‘Shesh Thikana.’ She expressed hope that in the future, with support from the Gaon Panchayat, Zilla Parishad, and the public, the site would evolve into not only a cremation ground but also a sacred space featuring a children’s park and facilities for cultural and social events. Dhekiajuli Co-District Commissioner Bora also commended the initiative and joined Saikia in planting a Krishna Chura sapling (Royal Poinciana sapling) at the venue as a symbol of growth and harmony.

Following the formal handover, a public meeting chaired by Shesh Thikana President Vivek Bhatta expressed satisfaction with the organization’s work and reappointed the 13-member committee for another three-year term, with Bhatta as President and Dulal Barua as Secretary.

Community members including Hemanta Kakoti, Pawan Baishya, Shantanu Adhikari, Gajen Barman, Dulal Barua, Dhruvajyoti Kakoti, Jugal Deka, and Keshab Mahanta delivered speeches pledging continued support. Several attendees also made donations on the spot. The meeting concluded with thanks and felicitation, coordinated by the Vice-President and Principal of LOKD College, Dhekiajuli, Dr Sukdev Adhikari. This reconstruction marked not just the revival of a vital community facility, but also a renewed spirit of unity, compassion, and public service in the Sirajuli area.

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