Delhi High Court Orders Probe into Asha Kiran Shelter Home Deaths

The Delhi High Court has ordered an investigation into the deaths of 14 inmates at Asha Kiran shelter home for the mentally challenged. The court directed the social welfare secretary to inspect the premises and the Delhi Jal Board to test the water quality. Curative measures and decongestion efforts are to be considered.

The Delhi High Court on Monday called the recent deaths of 14 inmates at the government-run Asha Kiran shelter home a 'strange coincidence'. The court has mandated the social welfare secretary to review the premises on August 6 and submit a report.

Under the guidance of Acting Chief Justice Manmohan, the court noted that nearly all the deceased suffered from tuberculosis. The Delhi Jal Board has been instructed to test the water quality and inspect the conditions of water and sewer pipelines at the facility, with a report to follow.

Joined by Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, the bench stressed the need for 'curative measures.' Authorities have been asked to address potential overcrowding by relocating some residents to other facilities. The court will hear further arguments on August 7, in response to a PIL seeking an inquiry into the deaths. Official data indicates that since February, 25 inmates have died, with the shelter currently housing 980 intellectually disabled individuals.