Dr John L Sailo Ryntathiang, who died of COVID-19 in Shillong, will be cremated on Wednesday, after which, the ashes will be taken for burial.
Health minister AL Hek said that mortal remains of the renowned physician from Meghalaya would be taken to the electric crematorium at Jhalupara.
“The ashes would be taken for burial to the graveyard to be decided by the family,” Hek said.
Dr Sailo, as fondly known to many, passed away on Wednesday at 2.30 am after he was tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday.
As director of Bethany hospital at Nongrim Hills, Shillong, Dr Sailo has cured many patients in his career as doctor.
Dr Sailo, 69, did his MBBS from AMC Dibrugarh and MD Medicine from AIIMS.
He has no travel history, but his son in law who is a pilot has. But the pilot did not develop any symptoms.
Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma has conveyed his condolences on twitter.
“I am deeply saddened to inform that the first #COVID19 positive patient in Meghalaya passed away this morning at 2:45 am. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace,” Sangma tweeted.