NCW Investigates Asha Kiran Home After Multiple Deaths Reported in July

The National Commission for Women (NCW) led by Chairperson Rekha Sharma conducted a fact-finding mission at Asha Kiran, a Delhi government-run home for the mentally challenged. The inquiry revealed numerous administrative failures and 14 deaths in July. A comprehensive investigation has been launched.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) led by its Chairperson Rekha Sharma conducted a fact-finding mission at Asha Kiran, a Delhi government-run 'home for the intellectually retarded' in Rohini. The visit followed alarming reports of 14 deaths in July alone. The NCW's preliminary inquiry uncovered serious administrative lapses, including inadequate medical care, poor hygiene, overcrowding, lack of safe drinking water, contaminated food, and insufficient staff training. The commission will share a final report with recommendations with the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi after the complete inquiry.

On August 2, NCW chief Rekha Sharma visited Asha Kiran, a government home for the mentally challenged in Rohini, Delhi, amid troubling reports of multiple deaths among its residents. An official report previously noted that 25 total deaths were recorded from February 2024, with 14 occurring in July alone. The report attributed the deaths to causes including loose motion, unconsciousness, mild fever, loose stools, and vomiting.

Reacting to the incident, Delhi Minister and AAP leader Atishi said, 'Asha Kiran shelter home is being run in Delhi... Those who live here are abandoned people rescued by the police. A report is coming that 14 deaths have occurred here in July, among 14 one is a child. This is a serious matter and to investigate this a magisterial enquiry has been ordered. The preliminary report will be submitted within 24 hrs. If there is any negligence seen in the report by any official, strict action will be taken against them.' Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has also called for a comprehensive inquiry into the state of all shelter homes run by the GNCTD, including the circumstances surrounding the deaths at Asha Kiran Home.