If any doubt or dispute arises whether a person is a near relative of the deceased, the matter shall, be referred to the Executive Magistrate and his decision shall be final and conclusive.

Penalty 6. Whoever disposes of or abets the disposal of an unclaimed body of a natural death, save as provided by this Act, or obstructs any authority in-charge of an approved institution or an authorised officer from handing over, taking possession of, removing or using, such dead body for all or any of the purposes of this Act, shall on conviction, be punished with fine which may extend to five thousand rupees.