Dr Sailo, first COVID-19 patient laid to rest

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 16, 2020

Dr John L Sailo Ryntathiang, who was the first COVID-19 patient, on Thursday was laid to rest at the cemetery of the Riatsamthiah Presbyterian Church at Lawmali. 

Dr John, Director of Bethany Hospital passed away at 2.30 am on Wednesday, 24 hours after he was tested positive for the contagious disease. 

According to officials, the coffin containing the mortal remains of the COVID-19 patient was taken to the cemetery in an ambulance.

People wearing personal protection gears were also seen carrying the coffin to the grave and laid the senior doctor to rest.

It may be mentioned here locals of Jhalupara had strongly opposed the government’s decision to cremate the body of the first COVID-19 patient.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma expressed his gratitute to the Riatsamthiah Presbyterian Church for their kind gesture.

“Dr John L Sailo Ryntathiang laid to rest at the Riatsamthiah Presbyterian Cemetry today. Kindness is the need of the hour and our gratitude goes to the Riatsamthiah Presbyterian Church for their gesture. May his soul rest in peace,” Sangma tweeted.

According to a senior government official, the burial of Dr Sailo’s body was strictly followed as per WHO guidelines with staffs of the Shillong Municipal Board.

It may be mentioned that six people including family members of the doctor were also tested positive for coronavirus.