Delhi High Court Probes 14 Deaths at Asha Kiran Shelter Home

The Delhi High Court on Monday requested a report on the recent deaths of 14 inmates at Asha Kiran shelter home. The court questioned the rampant TB cases and directed investigations into water quality and infrastructure. It emphasized the urgent need for curative measures and an inquiry into the incident.

The Delhi High Court on Monday sought a detailed report on the recent deaths of 14 inmates at the Asha Kiran shelter home for the mentally challenged. Almost all the deceased were suffering from tuberculosis, according to the court.

Expressing disbelief over the widespread TB outbreak, a bench led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan instructed the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) to test both water quality and sewer conditions. The court also mandated a visit from the social welfare department secretary on August 6. Both entities were ordered to file their reports promptly.

The court stressed that the high number of deaths necessitated immediate curative measures at the shelter. A public interest litigation (PIL) was filed, seeking an independent probe or a CBI investigation. The Delhi government revealed that a magisterial inquiry was already underway.