Delhi Minister Vows Action After 14 Deaths at Asha Kiran Shelter Home

Delhi Revenue Minister Atishi stated that 14 inmates who died in July at the Asha Kiran shelter home had some comorbidities. A probe has been initiated, and negligence will not be spared. Asha Kiran, a facility for the intellectually disabled, is under the Social Welfare Department, currently leaderless after Raaj Kumar Anand's resignation.

Delhi Revenue Minister Atishi announced on Friday that out of the 14 inmates who died in July at the Asha Kiran shelter home, some had pre-existing comorbidities. She emphasized that any negligence discovered during the investigation would lead to accountability.

Asha Kiran is a Delhi government-run facility dedicated to the care of intellectually disabled individuals. It operates under the Social Welfare Department, which currently lacks a head following the resignation of its former leader, Raaj Kumar Anand.

During a press conference, Minister Atishi revealed that Asha Kiran houses 980 inmates and is staffed by 450 caretakers. She further detailed that some of the 14 inmates who passed away had been hospitalized as early as June, and the incident warranted thorough medical examination. Pending autopsy reports are expected to provide more clarity.

A magisterial probe has been initiated to investigate the deaths, with a preliminary report due within 24 hours. Minister Atishi assured that any officials found negligent would face strict action, including police inquiry.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently detained in Tihar jail, has not yet assigned the charge of the Social Welfare Department to any other minister.