NHRC Probes Inmate Deaths at Delhi Shelter Home Amid Renewed Neglect Allegations

The NHRC has issued notices for a detailed report on the deaths of 12 inmates within a month at Delhi's Asha Kiran shelter home. The shelter, criticized for overcrowding and poor conditions, has prompted a comprehensive inquiry from the Delhi Lieutenant Governor.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has intervened after 12 inmates died within a month at Asha Kiran, a Delhi government-run shelter home for people with mental impairments. Notices have been issued to both the Chief Secretary and the Commissioner of Police, requesting a detailed report within four weeks.

The NHRC revealed that between July 15 and July 31, ten women and two men died at Asha Kiran, exhibiting symptoms like loose motion and vomiting. Many others are reportedly receiving treatment at the hospital. The NHRC noted that in July, 54 inmates were sent outside the facility for medical care, raising concerns about neglect and poor living conditions.

Expressing grave concern over the situation, the NHRC stated that the reported deaths and overcrowding at the shelter home point towards potential human rights violations due to negligence. The Commission anticipates a comprehensive report detailing the FIR status, actions taken against responsible officials, and measures proposed to prevent such incidents in the future.

Asha Kiran, which has been the subject of scrutiny in the past, currently houses over 1,000 inmates despite a capacity of 500. Reports from 2015 by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and a 2017 report by the Delhi Commission for Women have previously criticized the shelter for its overburdened state, insufficient medical facilities, and staffing shortages.

In response, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths at Asha Kiran and the overall conditions of all shelter homes run by the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD).