The Delhi High Court on Monday ordered the Social Welfare Secretary of the Delhi Government to personally visit the Asha Kiran shelter home tomorrow, where 14 inmates, including a child, died last month.

A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela stated that 14 deaths in one month at the shelter home cannot be coincidental. Observing that the deceased individuals were suffering from tuberculosis, the court directed the Delhi Jal Board to immediately test the quality and condition of the water at the shelter home.

The court seeks reports from both the Delhi Jal Board and the Secretary regarding the visit, and scheduled the next hearing for August 7. Additionally, the court indicated that if the shelter home is overcrowded, some residents may be relocated to more suitable accommodations.

The bench was hearing a PIL filed by Samadhan Abhiyan, which sought a court-monitored investigation into the deaths. The petition alternatively requested a CBI inquiry and a social audit of all shelter homes in the national capital to ensure transparency and reveal the true living conditions within these facilities.

The petitioner’s counsel argued that there are significant lapses in the operation of the shelter home, including those involving Delhi Government-owned entities. In response, the Delhi Government’s counsel clarified that, out of the 14 deceased inmates, only one was a child, while the others were adults. He also informed the court that all the deceased individuals had severe intellectual disabilities and other comorbidities.

The court was informed that most of the deaths occurred in the hospital, and that post-mortem examinations had been conducted with reports pending. The court highlighted two key aspects of the matter: first, conducting a criminal investigation and determining responsibility, and second, implementing remedial measures promptly.

“Enquiry will wait but what needs to be done at the earliest is that you carry out curative measures. If there is some problem, find it first and foremost,” the court remarked.

The court further stated that if there is a shortage of drinking water at the shelter home, measures must be taken to ensure a sufficient supply. Additionally, if there are issues with hygienic conditions, the court emphasized that adequate staffing should be provided to address the problem.

Case Title: Samadhan Abhiyan v. GNCTD & Ors.