Section 279. Powers to cause corpses to be buried or burnt

(1) The Municipality may, in case of unclaimed bodies after the expiration of not less than twentyfour hours from the death of the person and in case of unnatural death after completion of formalities under the law for the time being in force, cause the corpse of such person to be buried or burnt. (2) In such case the corpse shall be disposed off, so far as may be possible, in a manner consistent with the religious tenets of the deceased as far as they may be ascertained. (3) Subject to the provision contained in sub-section (4) the expenses incurred by the Municipality in causing the corpse of a deceased person to be buried or burnt under this section shall be recoverable as a debt due from the estate of such person. (4) The Municipality may from time to time make provision from out of the municipal fund, for the burial or burning free of charges, of corpses of paupers within the limits of the Municipality.