The Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the donation of late MM Lawrence’s mortal remains to a medical college for research. MM Lawrence, a Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader and former MP, passed away at 95 on September 21, 2024.
Daughter’s Legal Challenge
Asha Lawrence, his daughter, filed the petition, arguing that her father’s body should be buried according to Christian rituals. However, her siblings supported the decision to donate his body, citing his wish for it to be used for medical studies.
Kerala High Court’s Decision
The Kerala High Court had earlier dismissed Asha Lawrence’s plea, noting that MM Lawrence had expressed his desire under Section 4A of the Kerala Anatomy Act. A committee formed by the medical college heard her objections but decided to accept the body for research.
Supreme Court Verdict
On January 15, a Supreme Court bench led by Justice Hrishikesh Roy and Justice SVN Bhatti upheld the High Court’s ruling. The Court dismissed Asha Lawrence’s appeal, agreeing that the decision aligned with the veteran leader’s wishes.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision respects MM Lawrence’s expressed desire to contribute to medical research, closing a dispute that the Kerala High Court described as “regretful litigation.”
