Delhi govt. orders probe into 14 deaths at city-run shelter home; funds misused, lack of facilities, says BJP

The Delhi government on Friday ordered a magisterial probe into the death of 14 inmates at Asha Kiran, a city-run shelter home in Rohini for the “intellectually disabled”, with Cabinet Minister Atishi promising that if found, negligent behaviour “would not go unpunished”.

The Delhi government on Friday ordered a magisterial probe into the death of 14 inmates at Asha Kiran, a city-run shelter home in Rohini for the “intellectually disabled”, with Cabinet Minister Atishi promising that if found, negligent behaviour “would not go unpunished”.

Lieutenant-Governor V.K. Saxena also directed a comprehensive inquiry into all shelter homes run by the Delhi government, and sought the report within a week. He also ordered a White Paper report on the homes run by the Social Welfare, Women & Child Department and the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board.

According to official data, 25 inmates died at the shelter home since February, with 14 deaths — including a minor and six women — occurring in July alone. Reports stated that several of the deceased were suffering from health issues including lung infections, tuberculosis and pneumonia. Results of the post-mortem are awaited.

“Initial investigation revealed that many of the deceased suffered from physical problems other than intellectual disability. Fourteen deaths in a month is a very serious matter. Given this, we have immediately ordered a magisterial inquiry and a deadline of 48 hours has been given for a preliminary investigation report,” Ms. Atishi said at a press conference.

The shelter houses 980 inmates, and has round-the-clock medical care units which include six doctors, 17 nurses, and 450 caregivers, she said, adding that any detected negligence among those working at the home would be met with stringent action.

“I want to assure the people of Delhi,” she said, “that any death resulting from negligence or irresponsible behaviour will not go unpunished.”

A letter from the L-G secretariat also stated that the parents or guardians of the individuals be contacted and compensated suitably.