Answered By Pt Sri Pranesh Achar (Ananda Rangan)
General
If there is no one else to carry the body, helping in this way is considered a great meritorious act, not a sin. It is said that each step taken while carrying the body gives great spiritual merit.
If one touches the body, the sacred thread (janivara) should be changed. However, if the deceased is not a close relative, there is no need to observe ashoucha. Ashoucha applies only to close relatives, not to those who help by carrying the body.
