On August 3rd, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) announced that it has issued notices to both the Delhi government and the city's police chief in response to reports indicating that 12 inmates died within a month at a shelter home in Rohini. The NHRC's statement highlighted that the high number of deaths in such a short span suggests "negligence on the part of the authorities." 

The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report revealing that 12 inmates died between July 15 and July 31 at Asha Kiran, a Delhi government-run shelter home for individuals with mental impairments. The Commission's action underscores its concern over the reported negligence at the facility. 

Reports indicate that the deceased included 10 women and two men, all of whom exhibited similar symptoms such as loose motions and vomiting. Several other inmates are reportedly receiving treatment at a hospital. According to data from the shelter home's medical care unit, 54 inmates were sent outside the facility for treatment in July. This situation has "caused alarm and revived allegations of neglect and poor living conditions" at the shelter home. 

The NHRC has noted that if the information of the news report is accurate, it raises serious concerns about violations of the human rights of inmates at the reportedly overcrowded facility. 

The NHRC has issued notices to the chief secretary of the Delhi government and the commissioner of police, requesting a detailed report within four weeks. This report is expected to cover the status of the FIR related to the deaths, any actions taken against responsible officials or officers, and measures proposed or implemented by the authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future. 

According to a media report from August 2, Asha Kiran has been involved in controversies before. Despite having a capacity of 500 inmates, the shelter home is reportedly overcrowded with over 1,000 residents, contributing to its current issues. 

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) had previously flagged issues with Asha Kiran in its 2015 report. It noted that the shelter home was overburdened, inadequately equipped for medical emergencies, and lacked sufficient staff. The report also documented a total of 148 deaths occurring between 2009 and 2014. Additionally, it highlighted a "slackness" in the department’s efforts to alleviate overcrowding at the facility. In 2017, the Delhi Commission for Women also reported that the shelter home was in a "poor condition," underscoring ongoing concerns about its management and conditions. 

Image source: Republic World