Delhi Govt Faces Criticism Over Deaths at Asha Kiran Shelter Home

Aam Aadmi Party’s Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal has criticized the Delhi government for its alleged negligence following the recent deaths at Asha Kiran shelter home, a mental health facility run by the Delhi government. Maliwal highlighted the lack of sufficient staff and doctors during her earlier inspection, revealing that 13 inmates had died in the past 20 days due to “health issues and malnutrition.” Despite previous reports submitted to the government, no action had been taken, prompting Maliwal to demand an FIR and announce her intention to raise the issue in Parliament.

Following these allegations, the Delhi government has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the deaths. Delhi minister Atishi directed the additional chief secretary to file a report within 48 hours. According to a Times of India report, 12 patients, including 10 women, died in the latter half of July, with all deceased exhibiting symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting. The National Commission for Women chairperson, Rekha Sharma, also condemned the government, pointing out the lack of proper food, water, and medication for the 450 residents at Asha Kiran.

Established in 1989 in North Delhi’s Rohini area, Asha Kiran is managed by the Delhi government’s Social Welfare department and has been without a head following the resignation of Raaj Kumar Anand. Sharma called for accountability, emphasizing that the young lives lost were due to sheer negligence. The Delhi government’s probe aims to uncover the reasons behind these tragic deaths and prevent further occurrences.

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