The Asha Kiran Shelter home, operated by the Delhi government’s social welfare department, has become the subject of intense scrutiny after 25 deaths were reported there since February 25. The situation escalated in July, with 14 deaths reported in that month alone, including six males and eight females. One of the deceased was a minor, further intensifying concerns. While the cause of these deaths remains under investigation, authorities are awaiting post-mortem reports. Located in Delhi’s Rohini area, the Asha Kiran Shelter Home reported loose motion and unconsciousness as the primary reasons behind the deaths, according to a report submitted to the Delhi government. Other contributing factors listed included mild fever, loose stools, and vomiting. Responding to the situation, DCP-Rohini district GS Sidhu stated that police have initiated standard procedures for investigating unnatural deaths at shelter homes. He emphasized that the deceased individuals spanned various age groups, including minors.
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights also took suo motu cognizance of the deaths of minors at Asha Kiran Home, raising concerns about the care provided at the facility.
National Commission for Women (NCW) chief Rekha Sharma voiced strong criticism of the situation. She highlighted that most of the deceased women were under 40 years old and pointedly questioned Delhi minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi, accusing her of negligence in allowing such deaths to occur.
Sharma shared two images on X (formerly Twitter) to underscore the alarming conditions at the shelter. One image showed the shelter’s menu, while the other depicted fungal-infested food served to residents. She claimed that the image was provided by the doctor on duty, who felt helpless due to his concerns being ignored.
Sharma further alleged that the shelter lacked a water filter facility and that many residents had died from diarrhea. She highlighted the absence of proper toilet facilities, untrained and unregulated staff, and the lack of biometric attendance. She also pointed to overcrowding, with 495 inmates housed in a facility designed for 250 individuals.
Following Sharma’s public statements, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the state of affairs at all shelter homes operated by the Delhi government, including Asha Kiran Home. He demanded a report within one week, identifying responsibilities and initiating immediate action against the facility’s administrator. The LG also directed that the parents/guardians of the deceased be contacted and offered appropriate compensation.
Atishi, responding to the public outcry, ordered a magisterial inquiry into the deaths at Asha Kiran. At a press conference, she highlighted that the shelter houses 980 individuals with intellectual challenges, many of whom are abandoned people rescued by the police. She confirmed 14 deaths in July, including one minor, and stated that post-mortem reports are pending. The preliminary inquiry report is expected within 24 hours, and disciplinary action will be taken against any officers found negligent.
DCP Rohini, Guriqbal Singh Sidhu, confirmed that actions have been taken under 196 BNSS and further actions will be based on the medical reports, post-mortem findings, and the magistrate’s inquiry.
AAP MP Swati Maliwal, who visited the facility, expressed her view that criminal negligence was involved. She highlighted reports of malnutrition among residents, noting that medical records indicated malnutrition in some individuals, and that 30% of residents were malnourished, with a BMI below 18%. She also mentioned the prevalence of skin diseases among residents.
Maliwal called for an FIR to be lodged and vowed to raise the issue in Parliament.
The situation at Asha Kiran Shelter Home has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for swift and decisive action. The investigations underway are expected to shed light on the extent of negligence and accountability, with the hope of preventing such tragedies from recurring in the future.
