Shocking: 13 children at Asha Kiran shelter home for specially abled die in 20 days; who 's responsible?
PTC Web Desk: As many as 13 children have died at Asha Kiran shelter home for specially abled being run by the Delhi Government, in the past 20 days, says a sub-divisional magistrate's investigation report.
Since January, at least 27 deaths have been reported at Asha Kiran shelter home that is based in Rohini. The BJP has alleged neglect and poor living conditions at the shelter home.
Although the exact reason behind the deaths of the children at the shelter home remains unclear, the SDM expressed concern that the death toll was significantly higher than the last year and that the true cause would be known after post-mortem reports. The SDM's report has raised concerns about the quality of drinking water provided to the children. In response, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has dispatched a fact-finding team to the shelter, accusing the AAP government of negligence.
Rekha Sharma, NCW chairperson, said, "For years, the Asha Kiran shelter home has lost all hope. People are suffering and dying, and the Delhi Government does nothing. My team is being sent to investigate." The NCW is also auditing night shelters run by the Delhi Government.
However, Delhi Minister Atishi disputed the reported number of deaths and has requested a magisterial probe from the additional chief secretary (ACS) of the Revenue department, demanding a report within 48 hours. Atishi said there had been 14 deaths since January 2024 and has called for recommendations on actions against those responsible for the negligence and measures to prevent future incidents.
Meanwhile, the Delhi BJP has also sent a team to Asha Kiran to assess the situation.
- With inputs from agencies
