Justice Chaitanya Laksman, representing the Raiwaqa (Navua) Crematorium Committee, has emphasized the urgent need for lawmakers to revise the Burial and Cremation [Amendment] Act 2025 to include explicit provisions for cremation rather than relying on ministerial regulations. During a recent submission to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, Justice Laksman pointed out that existing regulations only govern burial practices and do not offer legal recognition for crematorium services, leading to uncertainty for entities managing these facilities across Fiji.
Justice Laksman proposed that integrating cremation provisions into the principal Act would provide the necessary legal recognition for crematorium committees, ensuring they can operate under defined standards of management, accountability, and operations. He indicated that this foundational legal status is essential for the continuity and effective management of crematorium services for future generations.
Amid delays in formalizing the legal and regulatory framework, Justice Laksman highlighted that the Raiwaqa (Navua) Crematorium Committee has already made strides by securing specialized equipment from India through the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs. However, the absence of a robust legal structure has been a significant hindrance to progress. He urged the Committee to take advantage of the amendment process for the 2025 bill to modernize the legal framework governing cremation, noting, “These are too important to be left to regulations…let’s make this solid in law.”
This push for legislative clarity resonates with broader recent efforts within Fiji to enhance end-of-life services. In parallel, the Fiji Corrections Service has called for a review of the Burial and Cremation Act 1911, addressing similar concerns about inadequate legal recognition and clarity in managing burial sites. Both Justice Laksman and FCS Commissioner Jale Nakarawa have pointed out that an updated legal framework is essential for effectively addressing challenges such as unauthorized use and the rising incidence of vandalism.
Moreover, Fiji is actively modernizing its end-of-life services with projects underway for gas crematoriums in several locations, including Ba and Labasa, reflecting a national commitment to environmentally sustainable funeral practices. These initiatives are intended to alleviate logistical pressures on grieving families and are part of a comprehensive effort to upgrade funeral services across the country.
The call for legislative amendments by Justice Laksman is a positive step towards ensuring that cremation services are integrated within the formal legal framework, promoting clarity and stability for both service providers and the communities they serve. By solidifying the legal foundation of cremation services, Fiji is showing its commitment to honoring diverse end-of-life practices while ensuring respectful management of these facilities.
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