Delhi High Court Orders Transfer of MCD Property for Overcrowded Shelter Home
The Delhi High Court directed the MCD to transfer a building to house overcrowded Asha Kiran shelter home residents, addressing urgent needs following recent deaths. The building will be renovated to alleviate the facility's overcapacity situation. Authorities are instructed to act without delays, prioritizing immediate action and filling staff vacancies.
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On Monday, the Delhi High Court instructed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to transfer one of its nursing colleges and hostel buildings to the Social Welfare Department. This facility will serve as an additional shelter for the mentally challenged residents of Asha Kiran, where 14 recent deaths had occurred amid severe overcrowding.
The bench, led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, highlighted the urgent need for more space, noting that Asha Kiran currently houses over 920 inmates, far exceeding its capacity of 570. The Department of Social Welfare notified the Court that all vacancies for health and non-health staff have been filled.
The High Court emphasized that addressing the overcrowding at Asha Kiran is an immediate priority, with the Department of Social Welfare agreeing to buy the MCD building. The price will be determined and communicated by MCD later. The Court stressed that financial constraints should not hinder immediate actions required to address the critical situation.
The Court directed the Secretary to file a fresh status report by Monday, underscoring the need for immediate action over procedural formalities. The Court also suggested approaching the Lieutenant Governor for additional funds and recommended hiring contractual employees to address staff shortages. The next hearing is scheduled for Monday.
The direction came while hearing a Public Interest Litigation by NGO Samadhan Abhiyan concerning recent deaths at the shelter. Official reports revealed 25 deaths since February 2024, with 14 occurring in July alone. (ANI)
(With inputs from agencies.)
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