Justice Chaitanya Laksman, representing the Raiwaqa (Navua) Crematorium Committee, has appealed to lawmakers to formally integrate cremation provisions into the Burial and Cremation [Amendment] Act 2025, rather than depending solely on ministerial regulations. His statements were made during a submission to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, where he expressed concerns about the lack of legal recognition for cremation services, which he believes creates uncertainty for those managing crematoriums across the country.
Laksman criticized the existing regulatory framework for focusing exclusively on burial practices while completely overlooking crematoriums. He argued for the urgent need to embed cremation provisions within the primary legislation to ensure stability and safeguard against future changes driven by ministerial discretion. “These are too important to be left to regulations… let’s make this solid in law, not an afterthought,” he urged lawmakers.
Incorporating these provisions into the main Act would not only provide legal recognition for cremation committees but also facilitate consistent operating standards. Laksman stressed the importance of establishing a sustainable management framework for crematoriums, highlighting the need for mechanisms that will benefit future generations. “We must set the mechanism in place for future generations — proper management and continuity of these committees,” he stated.
The Raiwaqa (Navua) Crematorium Committee has recently received specialized equipment from India through the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs. However, Laksman noted that the slow progress in establishing a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework is hampering further advancement. He encouraged the Committee to leverage the upcoming amendments as an opportunity to modernize Fiji’s legal system and clarify the governance of cremation operations.
The Standing Committee is currently assessing submissions related to the Burial and Cremation [Amendment] Bill 2025, which seeks to revise and harmonize Fiji’s regulations surrounding burial sites and crematoriums. This legislative effort aligns with a national commitment to enhance funeral services, ensuring that dignified and accessible end-of-life care options are available to all citizens.
In addition to these amendments, the introduction of environmentally friendly crematoriums, such as those funded in Ba and Sigatoka, reflects a broader initiative to modernize and improve end-of-life facilities in Fiji. These developments signify a positive trajectory addressing both environmental concerns and the need for respectful solutions for honoring deceased loved ones. As the country continues to refine its legal framework and infrastructure, there is a hopeful outlook for a future where every community enjoys equal access to dignified cremation and burial services.