Delhi High Court to Hear PIL on Asha Kiran Shelter Home Deaths

The Delhi High Court will hear a PIL on November 12 regarding the death of 14 inmates at the government-run Asha Kiran shelter home. The petitioner alleged physical assaults, urging the court for an independent probe. Fourteen inmates, including a child, died in July, highlighting severe issues at the facility.

The Delhi High Court has scheduled a hearing for November 12 concerning a PIL addressing the deaths of 14 inmates at the Asha Kiran shelter home, a facility for the intellectually disabled run by the city government.

During the session, petitioner's counsel alleged physical assaults on the inmates, prompting the bench, led by Chief Justice Manmohan, to request an affidavit substantiating the claims. The bench emphasized the need for credible evidence and documentation.

The petitioner noted the excessive responsibilities assigned to the DM, now acting as the shelter's administrator, contradicting a court order that mandated a dedicated leadership. With 25 deaths since February, the court underscored urgent reforms, calling for the social welfare department to expedite the recruitment of essential staff, including doctors, to address critical shortcomings.

(With inputs from agencies.)