Since January, 14 inmates at Rohini’s Asha Kiran home for the mentally challenged have died, allegedly due to health issues and malnutrition. In response, the Delhi government ordered a magisterial probe on Friday to investigate these lapses. Delhi Minister Atishi has demanded a report within 48 hours and requested measures to prevent future incidents.
Asha Kiran, established in 1989 and run by the Delhi government’s social welfare department, has a capacity of 350 people and has faced several controversies over the years due to inmate deaths.
In her order to Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar, Atishi highlighted reports of the 14 deaths since January, citing health issues and malnutrition, which suggest a lack of necessary facilities for the inmates.
“The government cannot tolerate such lapses if found true,” Atishi stated, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to improve conditions in such homes. She directed the Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue, to start an immediate magisterial inquiry and submit a report within 48 hours, recommending actions against those responsible and preventive measures for the future.
