MASTUL Foundation, a leading humanitarian organisation in Bangladesh, has officially received government approval to perform the burial and funeral rites of unclaimed (unidentified) bodies, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced.
The formal authorisation recognises MASTUL Foundation’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian service, particularly during critical times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the height of the pandemic, volunteers from the foundation performed the last rites for over 3,000 deceased individuals who had no family or claimants.
With this official mandate, MASTUL Foundation is now authorised to manage the full funeral process for unidentified deceased persons, including ritual bathing (ghusl), shrouding (kafan), and burial, ensuring they receive a dignified farewell in accordance with religious and state protocols.
Kazi Reaz Rahman, Founder and Executive Director of MASTUL Foundation, described the approval as a “profound responsibility”.
He said, “We have always performed this work solely for the satisfaction of Almighty Allah and out of our commitment to humanity. Every human being, even if unidentified, deserves a respectful burial. With this official recognition, we are more determined than ever to continue this selfless service with transparency and devotion.”
MASTUL Foundation, known for its wide-ranging social initiatives, including orphanages, schools and emergency relief services, plans to enhance its logistics to meet the new mandate.
This includes dedicated ambulances and specialised burial teams to provide 24/7 service for unclaimed bodies across the country.
