The imam of East London Mosque has written a letter to a coroner asking her to reconsider her decision not to prioritise religious burials.
Imam Abdul Qayum is urging Mary Hassell to reverse her policy which has been criticised by members of London’s Muslim and Jewish community.
Ms Hassell, whose remit covers Camden, Islington, Tower Hamlets and Hackney, said that no death will be prioritised on a religious basis.
Both Abrahamic faiths call for bodies to be buried as soon as possible after death, ideally the same day, and an invasive autopsy should be avoided.
In his letter Mr Qayum wrote: “In my experience, coroner services have been able to respect religious needs without disadvantaging anyone else.
“Indeed, the Ministry of Justice in its guidance makes clear that your office must take account of family and community preferences, including religious requirements.
“I hope you will reconsider the position you have taken, and ensure that families seeking an expedited burial will be accommodated whenever possible as a matter of course.”
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An Orthodox Jewish group has been granted the right to launch a judicial review over Ms Hassell’s decision.
The High Court hearing will take place on March 27 and 28.
