Court Demands Report on Asha Kiran Inmates' Conditions

The Delhi High Court has requested a report on the health and safety conditions at Asha Kiran shelter home. With over 700 inmates, the court has asked for a thorough medical and technical assessment following the death of 14 inmates. Immediate action and staffing updates are required by April.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday requested an exhaustive report from the state government on the physical and health conditions of inmates at the Asha Kiran shelter home for intellectually disabled individuals. The move follows a public interest litigation (PIL) after 14 inmates, including a child, lost their lives in July 2024.

Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia ordered that all 700 inmates undergo thorough medical evaluations, ensuring available doctors and physiotherapists examine them. Despite assurances from the Delhi government, the bench remarked that the ground realities needed thorough scrutiny.

The court has also mandated a technical audit of the shelter's infrastructure and demanded a report detailing both the health of the inmates and the staff situation. The social welfare secretary is urged to expedite recruitment processes ahead of the next hearing in April.

(With inputs from agencies.)